Every time I mention that I’ve trademarked Centralised Retirement Proposition, the reaction is always the same:
“Really?”
Followed by, “But why?”
And then comes the classic follow-up:
“Isn’t that just a process?”
Or even: “So what’s the actual solution you recommend?”
These reactions are exactly why the trademark exists.
What is a Centralised Retirement Proposition?
A Centralised Retirement Proposition (CRP) isn’t just a single product or a step-by-step guide—it’s a framework. A way of thinking. A consistent, repeatable structure to help advice firms deliver good client outcomes in retirement.
This concept came to the fore during the FCA’s thematic review of retirement income advice. The message was clear: firms need to demonstrate consistency in how they approach retirement planning, balancing flexibility with robust processes.
So, CRP isn’t just a process. It’s the umbrella.
Underneath it sits:
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The process (how advice is delivered)
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The solutions (drawdown, annuities, natural income, etc.)
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The questionnaires (risk profiling, capacity for loss, cashflow assumptions)
It gives firms a structured lens through which to assess and recommend retirement strategies.
But Isn’t the Solution the Most Important Part?
Many providers focus on solutions—products—without addressing the process that sits behind them. They ask why advice firms don’t “just fit” their clients into the ready-made solution they’ve built.
On the other hand, some advice firms feel they already have a solution that’s always worked—so why build a process around it?
But that’s missing the point.
CRP turns the sequence on its head.
Start with the proposition, then define the process, and finally choose the solution that best fits the client’s needs. This creates consistency and rigour, rather than backward-engineering advice from a product preference.
Is There a “Right” Solution?
That’s the beauty of it: there isn’t one right answer. For one client, a natural income strategy may be appropriate. For another, annuities could be ideal. Others may benefit from unit encashment or a blended approach.
It’s not about picking a side. It’s about understanding client goals, risk, capacity for loss, and preferences—and building a solution that reflects that.
So yes, your favourite solution might be “right” sometimes. But only when it’s right for the client, not just convenient for the firm.
A Thematic Paper We Can’t Ignore
As I mentioned in a previous blog, it’s easy to dismiss thematic reviews as something that applies to “other firms.” But this one is different. It’s a huge opportunity—if we choose to embrace it.
Retirement advice is one of the most complex and sensitive areas of financial planning. Clients need peace of mind, sustainable income, and clarity. A Centralised Retirement Proposition gives firms a way to deliver that—with consistency and confidence.
So Why Trademark It?
Simple. To prove a point and spark a debate.
I’ve created documents, templates, and materials to support this approach—but I can’t copyright a methodology. What I can do is protect the brand. So, Retirement Planning Simplified® and Centralised Retirement Proposition® are now trademarks.
Not to be grandiose—but to protect the structure and stimulate serious industry discussion.
Because CRP isn’t just a tick-box exercise or compliance fad. It’s the future of retirement advice done well.
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