Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 8480 BREWING & BEVERAGE INDUSTRIES BUSINESS Conflicting opinions are arising within the brewing industry regarding the impact of Brexit on the price of creating a pint, with the fall in value of the pound in recent months seen as a potential problem in some quarters, while others see opportunities in export markets and in buying more home-grown stock. The Guardian reported on 30th January that craft brewers are starting to feel the pinch, with not only the cost of raw ingredients imported from Europe and the US on the rise, but also the cost of the production equipment itself from such quarters. However, while SIBA warned consumers of potential price rises for their favourite tipple while brewers turned to imported stock, Roger Protz of Camra’s ‘Good Beer Guide’ countered the following day that it is “absurd to import grain” when good quality maritime barley is available domestically, further pointing out that there is “plenty” of yeast available, too. The fact is, brewers choose their ingredients carefully to craft unique products – so there is very often a reason why particular elements of a brew are selected from overseas. The domestic market remains strong, so while further export opportunities may have opened due to the pound’s weakness, most ale produced in the UK will likely still be consumed here, too. These reasons may give rise to smaller operations being concerned about escalating costs, and how they can remain competitive against bigger companies who can absorb the cost of currency fluctuations more easily. No matter what size the brewery, one thing they can’t do without is insurance. As each brewing business has its own unique challenges, insurance brokers need to help brewers in two ways: by providing the right insurance cover to make sure they are not out of pocket in the event of a claim, while also keeping their costs affordable. “You need an insurance broker that looks at your individual situation,” Catherine Proudlove, SME Team Manager at Bollington Insurance, explains. “We look at practical insurance solutions to cover everybody throughout the supply chain – whether it’s equipment manufacturers, brewing supplies, production, bottling or distribution. “For contract brewers, for example, we cover their usual stock, premises and liabilities, while also providing cover for letting out their site for third-party use. We then cover third parties that lease the site, too, ensuring that everybody gets the correct insurance at a sensible price – without duplication.” Keeping costs in check is important for everybody. “Insurance is fundamental to any business, so it’s important to only pay for what you really need,” Catherine continues. “Equally, it’s very important that your insurance policy doesn’t let you down when you have cause to use it. In some cases, incorrect cover can finish a craft brewer’s business.” Bollington are specialists in brewery insurance and can be contacted for no-obligation advice on 01625 400206. Matthew is a recent addition to the team at Bollington, having previously worked in insurance for QuoteLine Direct and Royal London. Part of the brewery insurance broking team, he developed an appreciation of fine craft beers while studying Law at Sheffield University. He enjoys regular contact with brewers, from a quick call regarding insurance through to resolving complex claims issues in consultation with Bollington’s in-house claims department. Outside of work, Matthew is a keen footballer and korfball player – and of course, he enjoys visiting the local pubs and sampling the seasonal brews! B The next issue of will be published in JUNE 2017 Featuring Showcase CASKS & KEGS Showcase CHEMICALS & ADJUNCTS Showcase PACKAGING & TRANSPORT Showcase EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION & TUITION New, pre-owned or re-furbished casks and kegs – for purchase or lease – plus cask repair and branding services, and container closures. Chemicals and other adjuncts used in the drinks production process. Bulk packaging & associated labelling plus transportation of beer and other beverages. Companies that will install your equipment and work with you in commissioning and initial production. EDITORIAL DEADLINE : Thursday 4th May ADVERTISING ARTWORK: Tuesday 9th May Brexit and brewers – can insurance help? asks Matthew Tattler, Bollington Insurance Brokers Last word INSURANCE 80_Layout 1 12/02/2017 19:17 Page 1