Christmas markets ‘could spell financial disaster for your small business’ – London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Christmas markets are an amazing resource for small businesses to increase exposure and sales, the festive period is a great way to further grow your business, whatever its size.

However, if your business isn’t insured, festive mishaps at markets could lead to costly consequences, potentially leaving you out of pocket.

Business Comparison Expert, Les Roberts at Bionic, has offered his top tips to ensure that your business remains merry throughout the Christmas season.

“Over the festive seasons, thousands of Brits visit festive fates or Christmas markets, whether they’re picking up a bespoke ornament, shopping independently for last-minute gifts, or simply wanting to experience the festive cheer; making Christmas markets the ideal place for small businesses to build strong relationships with the public.

However, when trading outside of your business premises, businesses need to consider their insurance policy, to ensure they are covered for all possibilities, especially when trading at festive markets when people are bound to end up getting a little merry with the festive spirit.

Check that your policy specifically covers trading away from your premises, as it’s likely you’ll need additional cover for a market stall to ensure you’re fully protected.”

Public Liability Insurance

“Public liability insurance is a type of business insurance that protects your business against the unforeseeable, whether it is damage to property or injuries to the public as a result of your work

It’s recommended to have public liability insurance when trading, whether in a brick-and-mortar location or when trading away, as it ensures your business is covered from claims from the public as a result of your business or products.

Public liability insurance cover can provide peace of mind when trading at festive markets as you can be at ease knowing that your business is likely to be insured against the following:

• Compensation costs
• Legal expenses
• Repair costs
• Medical fees
• Faulty products

Public liability insurance protects your business against any damages and can also foot the bill for any legal expenses, medical fees, and repairs that may occur if the unfortunate happens.”

*Policies vary per insurer and exclusions and limits apply. Always check the small print for exact coverage details.

Employers’ Liability Insurance

“Like public liability insurance, businesses that are trading at festive events and markets will benefit from employers’ liability insurance, which protects their employees against the unexpected. Having employers’ liability insurance will ensure that your business is covered against claims made by your employees, such as illnesses and injuries that occur whilst your employees are at work.”