Lifting the spirits of SMEs

Affordable cover, moulded to fit individual businesses, is possible in the small and medium-sized enterprise sector if brokers, insurers and trade bodies all pull their weight and get in line with their clients' needs, says Nicolle Farthing.

In the middle of an economic downturn, insurance premiums for small
and medium-sized enterprises are continuing to rise. Small businesses
should beware of skimping on insurance cover, however, whatever the
cost.


The types of insurance SMEs need varies according to the type and size of
the business but all require employer's liability, and most public
liability and product liability, in addition to building insurance where
the business has its own premises. Extras include business interruption
and