Manulife MPF wins service brand award for third straight year, plus two Lipper fund awards

On April 3, 2012, Manulife announced it had won the “Star Diamond Service Brand” award’s MPF service category for the third consecutive year, while two of its MPF funds took home 2012 Lipper Fund Awards — recognition on both the service and product fronts.

What did it win?

Manulife (International) Limited won the “Star Diamond Service Brand” award again in 2012, retaining the MPF service category title for three straight years. In addition, two Manulife MPF funds received 2012 Lipper Fund Awards.

Why did it matter then?

The awards landed just as the Employee Choice Arrangement (“semi-portability”) was about to launch in the second half of 2012, when trustees were racing to upgrade service quality and fund ranges. Three consecutive service-brand wins suggested the market broadly recognised Manulife’s MPF service and products at the time. For members comparing trustees ahead of the switch, awards were one reference point — though fund choice, fees and personal investment goals mattered more.