Summer is coming - grow your business by going outdoors
The benefits of attending farmers markets and outside events as an independent business owner
With warmer weather on the horizon, people are starting to venture outside and as a result, local high streets and outdoor events will see increased footfall. Incorporating these activities into your marketing plan can help grow your business.
Attending farmers markets or outdoor events can provide a valuable opportunity to boost your business’s visibility, showcasing you and your products, interacting with customers and building strong community networks.
Enjoy flexibility - you can choose to attend on a part-time or full-time basis making it easier to balance business needs with other obligations.
With this exciting opportunity to promote you and your business at farmers markets or outdoor events comes the responsibility to ensure your business is protected from potential risks and liabilities. An important aspect of this is having public liability and product liability cover in place.
Why do I need public & product liability at an outdoor event?
Compliance with organisers requirements - some farmers markets may require vendors to have liability insurance in order to take part.
Provides financial support protecting you against the cost of compensation for any damage or injuries caused by your business or products sold by your business.
Peace of mind with the knowledge your business is protected, you can focus on running your business and participating in the event with no distractions.
In order to keep costs low Expression Insurance provide £2m and £5m public and product liability cover as standard. Sometimes requirements of the organisers can be higher - you can contact us if a higher limit is needed, or if you are looking to attend on a more regular basis to check if additional cover is needed.
Minimise risk
If you are attending an outdoor event or farmers market you will need to ensure the safety and security of your business and customers.
What to consider for your risk assessment
Location: Assess the location and determine whether it is safe for your activities. Consider accessibility and parking. With trips and slips responsible for a significant proportion of liability claims, look out for slippery or uneven surfaces, any obstacles or areas of poor lighting.
Weather: Are there storms, heavy rain, or extreme heat forecast? If so put a plan in place to deal with any adverse weather conditions.
Equipment and supplies: Are they all in good condition and working order? You may need to bring backup equipment or supplies in case of an emergency.
Security: Is the area secure, and if you are attending solo, do you have a plan for your equipment if you have to leave it unattended at any time?
Food safety: If you are selling food or drinks ensure food is stored, prepared, and served at the correct temperature and you have facilities for hand washing and waste disposal. Be sure be sure to check recent food safety legislation to ensure compliance, for example requirements on clear labelling of allergens.
Health & safety: Consider any equipment you need to bring and how you will store your products. Consider your what will happen at the event - e.g. will there be any lifting, if so, have you provided and documented manual handling training?
In Summary
Farmers markets and outdoor events can help independent business owners showcase their products to a diverse audience, building brand awareness and gaining valuable customer feedback to help achieve long term success.
Carrying out risk assessments and having the correct business insurance cover in place is an essential part of being a good independent business owner as it shows you are responsible and committed to providing a safe and secure environment for your customers, hopefully leaving them more likely to recommend your business to others, leading to increased sales and profits.
Discover how Expression supports independent business owners who love their business, and their customers visit www.expressioninsurance.co.uk