Running a brewery, winery or distillery takes more than great taste and hard work—it takes foresight, flexibility and a solid plan for when things don’t go as expected. From managing employees to delivering product and protecting customer data, your business faces complex risks that go beyond the barrel.
Here are three scenarios that highlight important coverages many producers overlook—but shouldn’t.
A data breach puts customer loyalty at risk
Your tasting room’s point-of-sale system stores customer information for loyalty programs and online orders. But after a phishing scam targets your staff, cybercriminals gain access to that data—including saved payment details. You're left scrambling to restore systems, notify customers and manage reputational fallout.
Cyber insurance helps cover costs related to data breaches, including IT investigation, legal fees, customer notifications, credit monitoring and even public relations assistance. In today’s digital environment, any business that takes payments, runs a website or stores data is vulnerable—regardless of size.
A delivery driver gets in an accident—In a company van
Your team is headed to a local beer festival when one of your employees, driving a company-branded van, is involved in a collision. Thankfully, no one is seriously hurt—but the vehicle is damaged, and there’s liability to consider.
Business auto insurance provides protection for company-owned or leased vehicles used for deliveries, equipment transport or staff travel. It helps cover damages, injuries and legal expenses—keeping your operations moving, even when the road gets bumpy.
An employee files a claim for discrimination
One of your tasting room employees files a complaint alleging unfair scheduling practices and retaliation. Whether the claim is substantiated or not, you're now facing legal fees, HR strain and potential reputational impact.
Employment practices liability insurance helps cover legal defense costs and settlements related to claims of discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination and other employment-related issues. It's a smart layer of protection for any business with a growing team—especially in hospitality settings where employee turnover is common.
The wrong assumption could cost your business
Many business owners (who are in the business of manufacturing, distributing, selling, serving or furnishing alcohol) mistakenly assume they are protected from liquor liability through their general liability insurance. Not true. Alcohol-related incidents are only covered under liquor liability insurance coverage1—which can be added to a general liability policy. With the right liquor liability insurance, your business is covered for such losses as legal/attorney fees, settlement payments, medical costs, property damage and necessary repair costs.
Liquor liability laws vary from state to state which may affect coverage availability and limits, so the amount of required coverage is different depending on the state, as are the methods for calculating premium and the penalties incurred for violation. Talking to a commercial insurance agent can help you make sure you have the right coverage for your business.
Raise a glass to being prepared
The work you do is fueled by craft and care—your coverage should be, too. Find a local ERIE agent who can help tailor a policy that fits your business, your risks and your vision for the future.
Let’s talk about protecting your people, your process and your reputation—so you can stay focused on pouring your best.
