WITH Easter on the horizon, Northern Ireland’s hospitality industry is getting ready to warmly welcome punters again, as the hive of tourism activity grows.
After battling lockdowns from 2020, thankfully there has been reassuring statistics from the sector, with spend up 151 per cent from visitors from the south compared to the same time in 2019.
Long may this trend continue as more tourists explore this region from across the island, as well as more international visitors. The likes of the new Game of Thrones Studio Tour opening in Banbridge in February and the 10th anniversary of the Titanic Belfast visitor centre are examples of even more reasons for visitors to embrace Northern Ireland.
The recent sunshine also brought lots of locals out to their favourite restaurants or beer gardens, as we continue to support our local economy. Hopefully this is just the start and there will be plenty of more of the blue skies in the months ahead.
Yet against the backdrop of promising news and statistics, there is a need for vigilance in the hospitality sector, namely in the area of insurance. After a turbulent few years, now is the time to look forward and ensure that you have the right cover in place for your business and needs.
With the Easter bunny paying a visit, it is important not to put all your eggs in one basket and to work with a broker to find the best policy to suit your needs. There is no “one size fits all” cover when it comes to determining how you can protect your hospitality business.
Having an experienced insurance broker visit your premises and take the time to understand the operation, the type of business, the potential risks and a safety-first approach, should be paramount.
A broker will make efforts to understand your business, its ethos and how you are a source of employment for the local community and a source of enjoyment for all who visit.
Action can be taken to ascertain any pitfalls or risks, assessing your health and safety measures and protecting you in the long run from any claims. An experienced insurance broker can also offer strong claims management, which will help minimise potential claims under your Public & Employers Liability.
Incidents can occur within your premises, from fire risks to robberies, and unfortunately there are more and more fraudulent claims against businesses too. Insurance can seem like an unwanted expense when providers are trying to recoup losses, but a cheap premium could leave you exposed.
You should give yourself peace of mind knowing that you are protected correctly, by letting a broker help find the best possible insurance that they can offer you. From determining the right building and content cover, understanding the right employer’s liability for you and also stock cover for the upcoming Easter period and bustling seasonal months.
:: Donna Vaughan is commercial account manager at AbbeyAutoline (www.abbeyautoline.co.uk)
