Month: October 2023

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creatin...

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

Implementing sustainable catering practices has many benefits. Not least, the fact that it will help reduce your environmental footprint, while also appealing to a growing market of consumers who place a lot of value on sustainability.

You’ll be able to help mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems and improve the quality of life for many. Necessary elements of sustainable catering are considering sourcing, reducing water usage, energy consumption, and waste. By conserving these, caterers not only reduce their operational costs but also contribute to the responsible management of finite natural resources.

In this guide, we explore how to adopt sustainable food catering and the reasons why it’s so important.

What is sustainability in the catering industry?

Sustainable food catering uses practices and principles that will reduce your company’s environmental, social, and economic impact. This means being able to meet consumer needs, while considering what your actions mean for the planet and for future generations.

Sustainable catering is about making responsible choices in various aspects of your business, from sourcing ingredients to food preparation and waste management. Ethical considerations also encompass fair labour practices, animal welfare, and support for local communities.

It is essential for everyone in this industry to take a thoroughly considered, holistic approach to conserving resources, in order to promote ethical practices throughout the catering supply chain.

Why is sustainability important in the catering industry?

Sustainability is essential in the catering industry for several reasons. As with any type of business, it fulfils environmental responsibilities, customer preferences, legal compliance, and long-term business success. It can’t be denied that caterers who prioritise sustainability are better positioned to thrive in a changing and environmentally conscious market. Research shows that at least 75-80% of consumers will choose sustainable businesses over those that are unsustainable. It goes without saying that being in the former category, favoured by the majority of those who have the final say in your success, makes your business much more resilient.

Crucially, however, this sector in particular needs increased focus on global responsibilities. This is because the food system is the second-largest contributor to greenhouse gases, after energy. If every sustainable catering company is more mindful about its choices, they’ll be doing their bit to try and lessen the damage caused by this industry, which releases 25-30% of global emissions. Food waste, for example, emits a large amount of the greenhouse gas methane, while also taking up a lot of landfill space.

There are also strict regulations and laws related to food safety, waste management, and environmental impact. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid fines and legal issues. Sustainability practices often involve building reliable supply chains too, which can help caterers navigate disruptions caused by factors like climate change or global events such as pandemics.

Operating with these ethics in mind is also important for public health, as truly sustainable food is more nutritious and won’t ever contain chemicals or pesticides. Therefore, healthier and more sustainable catering go hand in hand, which means both you and your customers can feel good about what they eat.

Lastly, adopting sustainability initiatives can boost employee morale and engagement. Many people prefer to work for companies that share their values and are committed to making a positive impact.

How can catering be more sustainable?

There are a number of ways you can develop a sustainable catering business, across key areas such as food production, transportation, energy consumption, and waste generation.

How can you introduce more sustainable catering practices?

By implementing these eco-friendly practices, UK caterers can contribute to environmental sustainability while also appealing to environmentally conscious customers.

Here are some sustainable catering practices you can consider.

Source locally, as much as possible

Use ingredients sourced from local UK farmers, growers and suppliers. This will reduce carbon emissions given off by long-distance transportation while supporting the local economy. It also allows you to use fresher ingredients that are both healthier and tastier.

Serve locally produced refreshments, too. Buying local wines, beers, and other beverages will support regional businesses and reduce transportation emissions.

Create seasonal menus to optimise local products

Design your menus around the seasons, using ingredients that are in season in your area. This reduces the need for energy-intensive storage and transportation. It also helps maintain customer interest in your services, encourages innovation, keeps your marketing relevant and compelling, and boosts your brand reputation.

Reduce food waste as much as possible

Make sure you’re clued up when it comes to your food waste reduction strategies. There are different ways you can do this effectively, such as accurately estimating guest numbers, using proper storage methods, and controlling portion sizes.

Your business must have a thorough recycling and composting system in place. In order to properly manage waste and divert it from landfills, sustainable catering involves a continuous, daily commitment to disposal.

You can also consider donating surplus food to local food banks or allowing employees and clients to take it home.

Choose seafood with the sustainability stamp

Choose seafood options that are certified as sustainable, by organisations such as the Marine Conservation Society. Look for labels like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council), which are the seal of approval for responsible sourcing.

Offer plant-based options

Of course, it makes good business sense to cater to the growing demand for plant-based diets. Not only that, but it will lower your environmental impact if you serve a variety of vegetarian and vegan menu choices. Putting too much focus on meat-based options can be bad news, as the meat and dairy industries account for 14.5% of the world’s man-made CO2 emissions.

Use biodegradable materials

When it comes to tableware, stay well away from single-use items, such as those made from plastic, as much as possible. If you can’t invest in reusable products, opt for biodegradable or compostable plates, utensils, and packaging, in materials such as bamboo, cornstarch, or sugarcane.

Extend this mindset to your decor, too. Use sustainable, reusable decorations, tablecloths, and centrepieces. Minimising waste from your table settings, as well as from the food you serve, further mitigates your environmental impact.

Use energy-efficient appliances

Invest in energy-efficient cooking and refrigeration equipment, ensuring that they’re properly maintained, to reduce energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint. Using LED lighting also supports a greener approach, which will reduce your energy bills too.

Get catering business insurance with Protectivity

Growing a sustainable catering business requires you to think practically when it comes to your long-term planning. While you’re dividing your focus between day-to-day activities and taking your company to the next level, it’s essential to invest in the right catering insurance to take care of your finances if things go wrong.

Protectivity’s Catering Insurance offers a range of options to suit your business. Our Public Liability offers up to £5 million of cover, in the event that a member of the public brings a claim against you. Whether someone is injured or their property is damaged, you can breathe a little easier with a policy designed to alleviate your legal costs. You can also opt to add on the Products Liability, with this extension offering cover for claims that arise from third-party products and goods. If you’d also like Commercial Legal Protection, this includes a Legal Helpline service and cover for a range of business issues.

Get an instant tailored quote for a catering insurance policy that suits your needs. If you’ve any questions at all, get in touch with our friendly team.

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*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date.

Last updated by

09:40:40 GMT • 11 November 2024

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

What Qualifications are Needed to Become an Electrician?

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

24 October 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creatin...

Get electricians insurance from Protectivity

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

Britain is suffering a severe shortage of qualified tradespeople, despite the fact that the level of demand means that there are potentially excellent earnings on offer. As well as builders and plumbers, good-quality electricians are extremely sought after right now. And with technology, electric cars, smart homes and domestic appliances all playing increasingly large roles in our everyday lives, the need for electrical installation and repair work isn’t likely to subside any time soon.

If you’re a young person evaluating your career choices, or you’re looking for a change in profession, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve created this guide, so that you can understand what qualifications you need to be an electrician. We’ll cover why qualifications are important, how they vary across the different routes into the industry, and the other key considerations to make as you become an electrical professional.

Why are qualifications important to be an electrician?

We’ve all heard of cowboy tradespeople and bodge-jobs at one time or another, and this kind of poor-quality work, often done on the cheap, doesn’t do anybody any good. Taking the appropriate qualifications for electrical work is vital for a number of reasons to ensure everyone gets the work and service they expect. Let’s break it down into five key areas:

Safety

This is perhaps the most important thing to remember when looking at what qualifications you need to be an electrician. Work that is not done safely can cause serious injury or worse, not only to whoever is doing the work, but to whoever is using the electrics afterwards. Good-quality training will ensure the right attitude and approaches towards safe work.

Specific expertise

Electrical work is such a broad church that there is a wide range of different works, which can vary depending on the work involved. For example, Domestic Installers don’t necessarily require all the qualifications and legal commitments that other electricians might need (more on that later). Different types of qualifications ensure that an electrician’s skill set is suitable for the type of work that they’re doing.

Quality of work

Qualifications ensure that an electrician is capable of doing the jobs they’re hired or contracted to do to the best possible standard. The training involved will guarantee that the right techniques and approaches have been learned along the way, instead of relying on second-hand advice or guesswork.

Customer trust

All three of the points above are important for giving customers confidence that their project is in good hands. Everyone remembers a good electrician, but they’re just as likely to remember a bad one. If a customer feels positive about work before, during and afterwards, they’re far more likely to become a repeat customer for months and even years to come.

Legislation

Different types of work come with different types of rules and regulations, many of them to ensure all the points listed above are adhered to. Qualifications help ensure work that takes place is legal, and that the importance of legal work is understood. In many cases, having these qualifications will be a legal requirement to get certain work and jobs.

What electrician qualifications can I get, and how can I get them?

There are several different ways to get into the electrical industry, and which ones are right for you depend on a number of different factors. These include (and are not necessarily limited to): your age, any pre-existing experience you have, any qualifications you’ve gained in other industries, and how much of your own money you’re able to spend on training. In this section, we’ll cover the main options in turn, and highlight some of the qualifications to work towards:

Apprenticeship

Getting an apprenticeship is probably the most common way to get a foothold in the industry, and in many ways, it can be considered the most traditional. You’ll be able to work on-site part-time, and spend the rest of your time learning in a college of specialist training centre.

Generally speaking, electrician apprenticeships last around three or four years. To be eligible, you’ll normally be expected to have GCSEs at grade C or better in English, Maths and Information Communication Technology. At the end of the apprenticeship, you’ll have either a technical certificate, NVQ or diploma at Level 3, which will enable you to pursue a long-term career in most types of electrical work.

Electrician’s mate

If you work as an electrician’s mate, then you have the chance to gain some working knowledge of electrical installations by shadowing and assisting a qualified professional. There are no formal requirements for qualifications to become an electrician’s mate, although gaining some of the basic credentials at levels 1 and 2 is desirable. Generally speaking, mates will not be able to carry out work unsupervised, which is why they’re generally better suited to larger businesses and sites where there are more people able to assist and provide advice.

Formal qualifications

It is possible to take qualifications in a formal college-based setting, in particular the Diploma in Electrical Installation at levels 2 and 3, or the T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction. However, these should not be considered everything that is needed to become a fully qualified electrician: practical experience working in the electrical industry (normally around three years) is also required. This is why the apprenticeship (as highlighted above) or company-specific training and development schemes should be considered in tandem with any course.

Approved Electrician status

The Joint Industry Board (JIB) awards the status of Approved Electrician to anyone who meets their exacting criteria. For starters, you’ll need to have completed an apprenticeship or equivalent; but you’ll also need at least two years’ further experience after that; and a level 3 qualification in inspecting, testing and initial verification.

Approved Electricians are able to design and install electrical projects in a high-quality, efficient and safe manner. They’ll also be able to manage projects and understand requirements from drawings and specifications. Therefore, while it may take a long time to get Approved status, it can significantly increase your earning power in the long-term.

Domestic Installer qualifications

In the eyes of the law – specifically Part P of the Building Regulations (Electrical Safety – Dwellings) – Domestic Installers are not electricians, strictly speaking. However, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t professionals in their own right.

Domestic Installers do not necessarily have to go through all the qualifications that electricians need to. Instead, you can get up to speed through gaining a level 3 award that confirms their knowledge of electrical installations. This should also ensure that you are conversant with the British Standard BS 7671 on Requirements for Electrical Installations (also known informally as ‘The Regs’). These awards can be completed in around 100 hours, meaning it’s possible to get what you need in as little as three weeks, as long as you can demonstrate an example installation to an assessor.

Direct application

Many electricians come into the industry from other trades, especially related areas like building or electrical engineering. In this case, some of the qualifications gained to work in these industries can be transferred into working as an electrician. You may find that through your existing credentials, you’re able to get a job at an employer that will then help you gain all the skills and specific qualifications that you’re missing.

Pre-existing experience

If you’ve already been working in the industry for some time and you haven’t reached at least a level 3 qualification, you may be able to get that level of accreditation without going through training. You can take an Experienced Worker Assessment that takes a look at your capabilities and expertise, and works out if you’re already operating at a sufficient level.

Get electricians insurance with Protectivity

Electrical work is vitally important, and it can also be highly dangerous if not done correctly. It’s for that reason that there are a wide range of requirements and legislation in place to make sure that work is always done safely and to a good, professional standard. If something goes wrong, the financial implications can be severe, which is why having the correct insurance is essential.

If you’re working for an employer, then you’ll normally be covered by whatever insurance provision they have in place. But if you’re working on a self-employed basis, or running your own electrician business where you’re employing other people, then having your own tradesman insurance in place is a must.

At Protectivity, we specialise in providing electricians insurance to professionals and entrepreneurs just like you. Our cover includes up to £5 million of public liability cover, employers’ liability if you hire other people, and the option for commercial legal protection in case you need support in this area. Find out more about our affordable policies, excellent claims handling, and monthly payment options for our electricians insurance today.

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09:46:59 GMT • 14 November 2024

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

The benefits of being a mobile hairdresser

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

19 October 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creatin...

Get hairdressers insurance from Protectivity

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

You might be used to your hairdressing clients coming to you – but have you ever considered going to your clients instead as a mobile hairdresser?

If you feel shackled by salon life, want to start a small business and don’t mind travelling, then setting up a mobile hairdressing operation just might be the career change you’re looking for. As well as giving you flexibility in what you do, where you do it and when you do it, you can also reach out to a market of people who want great styling, but don’t have the time to make it to a salon.

This blog highlights 11 of the biggest benefits of being a mobile hairdresser. You’ll get inspiration on why it’s worth branching out with your own small business, how it can enable you to unleash your creativity, and how it can give you a platform to take your career to the next level.

You can be your own boss

If you’ve never been self-employed before, then you’ve never experienced just how liberating it can be to work for yourself. It means you can say goodbye to micromanaging bosses breathing down your neck, bid farewell to workplace gossip and politics, and steer clear of all the horrible little jobs that ruin your day. Instead, within reason, you can shape your own working life and put your own enjoyment and career development goals first, without having to get permission from anyone first.

You can work where and when you want (within reason!)

Now, there are two sides to this particular coin that you should be aware of when starting out as a self-employed mobile hairdresser. The first is that you can absolutely work where and when you want, helping you fit your work around your other commitments (for example, picking kids up from school or caring for a relative).

However, you will need to be flexible to a certain extent in order to make the most of your potential. For example, many clients wanting mobile hairdressing services do so because they’re too busy with work and home life to make it to a salon. Therefore, they’ll primarily be looking for appointments at evenings and during weekends, so you’ll need to be open to working less sociable hours to take full advantage of this segment of customers.

You can pursue styles that interest you

No longer do you have to be constrained by the same old styles that salon customers want – being your own boss means you can set the rules and be creative. If you want to express yourself with your own signature styles, then this is your opportunity to do it, and potentially build a good reputation in your community in the process. It can also help you stand out from the crowd if you have plenty of competition in the area.

You can keep the rewards of your hard work

It can be incredibly frustrating to work hard for an employer and feel like you aren’t getting the rewards you deserve. This is particularly the case if you work for someone who likes to show off the new car they’ve bought or the nice holiday they’ve just been on. But if you work for yourself, your earning power is directly linked to your talent, ambition and dedication. If you’re good at what you do and you’re willing to put the effort in, you’ll be rewarded for it.

You can get variety in your day-to-day work

Salon work can sometimes be pretty mundane: you do the same old treatments day after day, and feel like you’re stuck in the same old routine. But when you’re a mobile hairdresser, then no two days are the same: you’ll get to work from a different environment every day, and treat different customers who want hair styling for all sorts of different reasons. This can help you keep things fresh and maintain your motivation and enthusiasm for your work.

You can explore niche business opportunities

Many successful mobile hairdressers have found particular success in branching out and specialising in a certain type of styling. For example, if you live in a diverse community, then you may have the option to specialise in treatments and styles that are best-suited to Afro-Caribbean hair characteristics. Alternatively, you could focus on weddings, and provide a full day of cuts and styles for the bride and all her bridesmaids in one go. These are just two of the specialisms which can help you appeal to a specific audience and gain more variety than the same repeat business every week or month.

You can give customers the best service

Being able to travel to a customer’s home to give them the style they’re looking for is a real positive from a customer service perspective. It means that they can feel more comfortable in their own surroundings, put their own music on, and avoid the stress of traffic and parking when travelling to the salon. At your end, you can go the extra mile by asking customers at the time of booking if they have any specific requests (such as in a special box on an online booking form). Being able to cater for their preferences will make them feel even more positive about their experience with you.

You can get started for minimal outlay

The costs involved in getting yourself started up as a mobile hairdresser are relatively small compared to other business enterprises. Perhaps the biggest is that you’ll need your own car, although you may well have one already. Beyond that, you’ll also need your own equipment such as scissors and appliances, as well as investing in a full range of products that you think you’ll need to use. And one other investment that you shouldn’t neglect is insurance.

You can find time to gain skills and qualifications

If you’re working full-time in a salon, it can be very difficult to find the time to focus on yourself and work on career development. After all, if you’ve just done a long day’s work, the last thing you’ll feel like doing when you get home is studying! Being self-employed, however, makes it much easier for you to build this valuable time into your schedule. If there are new skills you want to learn, or you want to boost your qualifications and credentials, you have a better chance to work towards future career success.

You can build your personal brand

In the health and beauty sector perhaps more than any other, personal branding is absolutely critical. When clients are looking for a new stylist, whether it’s one in their local area or one who specialises in certain cuts and styles, social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok will most likely be the first place they’ll look. If you don’t have a strong presence on these platforms, with a showcase of some of your best work and information on what you do, then you’ll be losing business to your more social-media savvy competitors.

You can boost your standing in your community

If you can gain a good reputation for creativity, reliability and professionalism in your local area, then you’ll quickly stand out as one of the leading mobile hairdressers in your community. You can boost this reputation even further by getting involved in some community events, such as setting up a stand at festivals, and advertising promotions and discounts in some local publications. And while social media is all-important, don’t overlook the power of traditional advertising such as leaflets and posts on notice boards: these can be particularly effective with older clients who generally don’t use social media as much.

Get your hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

As you’ve read in this blog, there’s lots to enjoy about becoming a self-employed mobile hairdresser. But like any small business enterprise, there could well be some stumbling blocks along the way, and in the worst-case scenario, could cost you a substantial amount of money.

The best way to protect yourself against this financial harm is through wide-ranging hairdressing insurance, which Protectivity provides for hundreds of ambitious stylists just like you. With our affordable cover, you can protect yourself and your business from loss, theft or damage of your own professional property and equipment; and any damage accidentally caused at the home of one of your clients.

Mobile Hairdressing insurance starts at just a few pounds a month. Take two minutes today to find out more, when you get a quote online. We also offer barber’s insurance for those who cut men’s hair.

This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.

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Last updated by

12:31:25 GMT • 14 November 2024

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

Why do catering businesses need insurance?

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

16 October 2023

•

13 mins read

Contributors

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creatin...

Get catering insurance from Protectivity

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

If you run a catering business, then you need catering business insurance.

Whether you’re serving food to hundreds of people at a wedding, or you’re running your own food truck at festivals and events, insurance gives you vital protection if something goes wrong. Without it, you’ll be placing your business – and therefore your own finances – at serious long-term risk. You may also be holding your business back from its true potential, and maximum profitability.

This guide explains all the key basics around catering business insurance: why it’s so important, what it protects you against, and why it might not cost as much as you thought.

Do I need insurance for a food catering business?

Short answer: yes! Every type of food catering business that is serving members of the public should have some form of insurance in place, at the very least to cover them against any illness or injury caused to customers.

Types of business that should be insured include (and are by no means limited to): event caterers, wedding caterers, business and corporate caterers, and artisan food operators, and even if you run a banqueting or exhibition hall and have your own catering staff on-site.

As catering businesses generally operate across a wide range of locations, it’s important to make sure that you’re covered for every reasonable eventuality, across every single place that you might operate in.

Situations where catering business insurance is vital

You might be tempted to focus on the food you sell and/or produce as the main risk of a claim being made against you. This is undoubtedly a major concern, but for any mobile catering or food-related operation, it’s just one of a host of possible issues that can easily creep up at any time. Five of the biggest include:

If someone becomes ill

Foodborne illnesses can easily strike, almost at any time, and the impact of them both on you and your customers can be severe. The most common causes of them for mobile catering businesses are food that is either undercooked, or that hasn’t been stored properly, and so becomes infected with dangerous bacteria. Poor hygiene practice, such as failing to wash hands on a regular basis can also allow bacteria to spread.

While all good types of insurance for a catering business will take care of any claims arising from this, you shouldn’t rely on insurance to bail you out. You should be as proactive and diligent as you possibly can be, and strive to achieve and maintain a five-star food hygiene rating from your local authority.

If food is spoiled for reasons beyond your control

Sometimes, circumstances conspire to make some of your food unfit for sale, or to make some of your ingredients unusable. For example, if you have anything stored in the fridge, then that can’t be used if the fridge breaks or if there’s a power cut as the food will become too warm and at risk of bacteria spreading. Of course, if you’ve made a significant investment into that stock, then that can have a major impact on your finances, so taking out insurance means you can be compensated – as long as you can prove it was because of events out of your control.

If your equipment breaks

Similar to the previous point, any equipment or machinery that can’t be used can seriously disrupt the services you can offer to your clients. This could be something as simple as a whisk or mixer going down if you make milkshakes, to a faulty or broken oven. As well as damage or mechanical breakdown, these items are often vulnerable to theft or even vandalism, which can similarly hamper your ability to prepare and sell products, or meet the requirements of your clients. Insurance can ensure that when these situations occur, you have the finances to source repairs or replacements in a timely manner, so that you can keep your business up and running.

If someone working for you gets hurt

As your business grows, you may find that you need to employ other people, so that you can handle all the demand coming your way, and so that you don’t have to do everything all by yourself. In this situation – even if you only employ one other person – it is absolutely essential that you have employer’s insurance in place. Under the terms of the Work Injury Compensation Act, if your employee is injured in the course of their work, you are legally required to compensate them for all their medical expenses and lost earnings that result. Employers’ insurance can offer financial protection against these eventualities.

Why you should buy catering business insurance

As you can see, there are several different circumstances where catering business insurance comes into play. But from your perspective, it gives you vital protection and reassurance in a number of different areas that go far beyond your day-to-day operations:

It protects your financial interests

When you run a small business, your personal and business finances are very closely interlinked – even if you have the official separation of operating as a limited company. When your normal activity is disrupted, your ability to generate income is severely impacted and you may find yourself struggling to pay the bills. Additionally, a successful claim for compensation can cost thousands of pounds, plus legal fees. Insurance helps you keep up and running, and covers many of the costs that can crop up unexpectedly.

It meets your legal responsibilities

If you’re running any sort of catering business, then you’ll be expected to comply with a range of different rules and regulations. As mentioned above, you’ll need employers’ insurance if you employ at least one other person, while you should also have products insurance to cover all the goods and services you provide. A good-quality catering business insurance policy will roll all of these protections and more into a single manageable monthly payment.

It reassures your customers and employees

Many catering businesses have to work very hard to convince and reassure people that they operate to the highest professional standards, from service to hygiene and everything in between. This doesn’t just apply to customers, who want to know that your food is safe (and tasty), but also your employees and suppliers, who want to feel that they’re dealing with a professional, diligent organisation. Being able to demonstrate that you have good insurance cover in place can show them that you take your business and your responsibilities seriously.

It complies with event attendance regulations

The vast majority of events will expect to see proof of your insurance as a condition of your catering business attending. Generally, they will expect to see evidence of a certain level of public liability insurance when you make your application. Without this in place, you’ll find it extremely difficult to get access to any prime opportunities to make major sales, because event organisers naturally want to protect themselves against the claim. That’s why you should always look for an insurance policy with a strong level of public liability cover: £5 million is a good starting point.

It gives you access to legal support if needed

Of course, every now and again, circumstances will arise which simply aren’t avoidable, and you may find yourself having to defend your business and actions in court. Even if you’re successful, this can be an extremely expensive endeavour in terms of legal fees, and that’s without considering the time you’ll lose that you could otherwise spend trading and developing your business. Some catering business insurance policies therefore offer extra cover for legal support, so that the financial and time loads of any court actions or disputes can be lightened.

Situations where catering business insurance is vital

If someone becomes ill

If food is spoiled for reasons beyond your control

If your equipment breaks

If someone working for you gets hurt

Why you should buy catering business insurance

It protects your financial interests

It meets your legal responsibilities

It reassures your customers and employees

It complies with event attendance regulations

It gives you access to legal support if needed

Get catering business insurance with Protectivity

As this blog demonstrates, insurance cover is critical, whatever type of catering business you want to run. And at Protectivity, we have years of experience in providing catering business insurance to creative entrepreneurs just like you.

With one of our affordable policies, you can:

Get up to £5 million of public liability cover against accidental injury or property damage
Up to £10 million of employers’ liability insurance, which is a legal requirement if you employ at least one other person
Products liability in case injury or illness is caused by the items and creations you sell
Optional commercial legal protection to help you with the expense of any court activity or contractual disputes

Our cover is available from just a few pounds a month, meaning you can give your business security and peace of mind, whatever the future may hold. Take a closer look at our catering business insurance today.

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14:16:37 GMT • 13 November 2024

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

Cheap small business ideas to start up

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

5 October 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creatin...

Get small business insurance from Protectivity

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

Ever considered some side hustle ideas, so you can break out of the nine-to-five? Now could be the best time to do it!

Every year, thousands of people just like you all over the country decide to set up their own small businesses and follow their dreams. Not only do they get to be their own boss, they get to enjoy the results of their hard work and turn their bold visions into viable business reality. But which idea is best for you?

This blog highlights more than a dozen side hustle ideas, that you can start up as small businesses for very little initial investment, or in some cases nothing at all. It includes side hustle ideas from home, chances to get creative, and opportunities to earn money for doing what you love most.

Pet grooming

If you’re an animal lover and you’ve got an eye for style, then becoming a professional pet groomer could be the job for you. Owners are spending more money than ever on their pets in order to keep them looking great, and to ensure that they’re as healthy as they possibly can be. This means that top-quality pet groomers, who have all the right skills, qualifications, tools and techniques, are in high demand – and can attract premium price tags once they’ve gained experience.

Mobile hairdressing

Men and women alike love to shell out on a great new hairstyle, but many people struggle to find the time to head to the salon. So why not take your styling skills to your customers? Mobile hairdressers are always in demand, especially during the evenings and at weekends when busy professionals are home from work. You’ll need your own transport as well as your own equipment, but you’ll be able to build a regular and loyal client base that can generate consistent income.

Nailcare

Britain’s high streets are teeming with nail salons these days, as they’re a great way to pursue a career in health and beauty without too much of a need to invest in equipment. While the number of nail bars already in business means the market is fairly saturated, but setting yourself up as a mobile nail technician can help you stand out from the crowd. Building a portfolio of your work that you can share online, and getting some formal qualifications, is an excellent place to start.

Personal training

For every gym bunny that works out every day, there’s another person who just can’t summon the self-motivation to exercise and push themselves on. This is just one of the reasons why personal trainers are so popular today. Whether you’re providing sessions in your local gym, outside in the park, or even in a client’s own home, you can make a real difference to their progress, whether they’re training to run a marathon or just want to lose a bit of weight. And you also have the freedom to specialise in certain techniques or types of exercise.

Massage therapy

Similar to personal training, massages can have a real positive impact on a person’s health and wellbeing, and the benefits can be mental as well as physical. Trained masseurs and masseuses can explore a range of different specialisms, from sports massages that encourage recovery to soothing treatments to promote rest and relaxation. You can operate from your own home or those of your clients, but getting qualifications will be key to attracting more – and more lucrative – clients.

Event management

Some of the side hustle ideas with the lowest start-up costs are those you can do from home with a computer. One that can be especially rewarding for small business people and freelancers is event management. There are countless organisations out there who need professional help in ensuring their events go smoothly, and plenty of couples who could do with handing their wedding planning to a third party. If you’re highly organised, can work well under pressure and don’t mind unsociable hours, then this could well be the job for you.

Pet-sitting, house-sitting and babysitting

When people go on holiday, are going out for the evening, or have to travel on business, they want the peace of mind that their loved ones and their belongings are protected. That’s why the market for looking after children or pets, or simply keeping houses occupied, is always a healthy one. The most important investment you can make in this area is to make sure you’ve undergone security checks, such as DBS if you’re intending to look after children.

Virtual assistant

As remote working has increased on the back of the pandemic, so many of the services that are related to work can also now be done remotely. An excellent example of this is a virtual assistant, who will fulfil many of the organisation and administration roles of a PA. Some businesses may only require this work part-time, opening up the possibility of working for multiple clients simultaneously. The key here is to make sure you’re as accessible and contactable as possible, across phone, email, and video collaboration tools.

Laundry services

If you’ve got a washing machine, a tumble dryer, an iron and an ironing board, then you’ve got everything you need to set yourself up offering laundry services. There are several reasons why laundry services get so much business, from busy executives who don’t have time to keep their office attire clean and pressed, to people in small accommodation who don’t have their own laundry facilities. It’s a job you can do entirely from home, although offering collection and delivery can help you stand out even further in the marketplace.

Cleaning

Everything needs cleaning and tidying at some point, but plenty of things can get in the way: a lack of time, not being very good at it, or just general laziness. This means that there’s always demand for professional cleaners, both in residential and business settings. Beyond your own transport, there isn’t too much in the way of equipment or qualifications required, and as a freelancer, you may have some flexibility around where and when you work. A good level of physical fitness is very important, though.

Handicrafts and artisan food

If you’re a creative person, there’s probably never been a better time to explore side hustle ideas that bring your passions to life. It could be arts and crafts, or food and drink, but there are two reasons why you’ve got more opportunities than ever before to sell your wares. One is the internet, where platforms like Etsy or even eBay can connect you to a global customer base. And the other is the growth of craft fairs and other similar events, where creators like you can showcase and sell your products to the public directly.

Tutoring

Tutoring is an excellent side hustle idea from home, and as long as you have the right experience and knowledge (and pass any security checks required), you’re more or less good to go. Tutoring can be in core subjects like English, maths and science for students who need extra help, or can be in learning more artistic skills like playing musical instruments. You may also want to specialise in coaching people to pass certain exams, such as the 11-plus, GCSEs, A-Levels or even university entrance assessments.

Social media and content creation

From individual influencers to global businesses, everyone has to work hard on their online presence, across their website and all their social media channels. If they don’t have the in-house expertise to develop the right content and strategies, then this is where you can help. You can create blogs and social media posts that help businesses generate more interest and sales, and you can also act as a consultant who assesses existing online footprints and recommends ways to make improvements.

Get small business insurance with Protectivity

The cheap side hustle ideas listed here are just a small fraction of the opportunities you can explore. But whatever option you decide to go for, one thing remains the same: make sure you have the most appropriate cover for your needs to ensure you’re protected from unexpected incidents.

Protectivity offers affordable small business insurance for budding entrepreneurs just like you, specialising in a wide range of different activities. Whether you’re looking for catering insurance, crafters insurance, pet business insurance or another another small business, explore the full list of small business insurance we provide today, or get in touch with our team to discuss your specific requirements.

Get Small Business Insurance from Protectivity

Last updated by

15:30:41 GMT • 13 November 2024

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

How can you embrace sustainability in hairdressing?

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

2 October 2023

•

9 mins read

Contributors

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creatin...

Get hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

No matter what industry you’re in, it’s good to be green when it comes to your business practices. Sustainability is much more than a trend; it’s an urgent necessity that everybody needs to participate in. Sustainability in hairdressing may not seem all that easy to achieve, but there are ways to reduce your carbon footprint without having to compromise your brand identity or completely shake up the way you operate.

The hair and beauty industry can play its part in protecting the environment while still keeping up with the latest trends and cutting-edge developments. In fact, if you neglect to address your business impact on nature, you risk falling behind competitors. You can make more ethical choices without having to change your service offering or lower your standards, while also attracting an ever-increasing section of the market who are environmentally conscious. Many clients now value companies that prioritise the planet, so it makes business sense to shift attitudes towards more ecologically-minded ways of working.

In this article, we discuss why all this is so vital, giving you tips for adopting environmentally sustainable work practices in hairdressing.

Why is sustainability important in hairdressing?

Sustainable hairdressers and salon owners still aren’t the norm. Of course, there are plenty of businesses making waves for their efforts. The most well-known brands who took this strategy early enough now stand out as leaders who inspired positive change. However, the environmental factors in hairdressing are numerous, so there is still much room for improvement across the industry as a whole.

Many of the most-used products in a hairdresser’s kit aren’t biodegradable, from cotton wool to foils, tissues to shampoos, colours and styling products in plastic packaging. Further to this, it’s unsurprising that hairdressers use a lot of energy when washing hair daily, using an array of tools constantly and requiring long hours of lighting from various fixtures. Not to mention that many hair products contain chemicals that are harmful to Earth’s ecosystems.

There are plenty of business benefits to going sustainable too, including reducing your costs, protecting your reputation, cornering a new market and maximising your longevity.

How can I make my salon environmentally friendly?

From greener products to reduced waste and energy-efficient practices, here are six tips for how hair salons can be more sustainable.

Use sustainable products and always check ingredients

One of the first and most effective steps hairdressers can take towards sustainability is opting for eco-friendly products. Many leading and smaller brands now offer shampoos, conditioners, and styling products free from dangerous chemicals and in recyclable packaging.

Find products with certifications such as ‘cruelty-free’ and ‘vegan’ to ensure they adhere to ethical and sustainable codes. As the hair industry is self-regulated, you have to know what to look for to avoid being fooled by greenwashing. When it comes to hair colour, you’ll need to select products with low ammonia content. There are many ingredients in different go-to products that have the green light to use guilt-free, from organic botanicals to ethically sourced oils.

Think about everything you use as a business; there’ll be more opportunities than you realise for making more thoughtful choices. Everything from toilet roll to cleaning products and tea bags can be switched for less damaging varieties.

Commit to recycling in every way possible

Salons generate a fair amount of waste, from hair clippings to used foil and empty product containers. So, it’s highly important to implement thorough systems for recycling. Clearly communicate these to everyone who uses the premises, setting up a comprehensive system with separate recycling bins in accessible places and easy-to-understand signs.

Hair waste could be collected and sent to organisations that use them for environmental initiatives, such as cleaning up river pollution and oil spills, or turning it into composting fertiliser. There are many charities that will gratefully receive hair waste donations to recycle it for wigs, too. You could also encourage clients to bring their own reusable towels or capes, instead of using disposable ones.

If you want to really commit to being more circular, you could even ban the use of plastic water bottles on your premises. And of course, the best way to avoid waste is to go digital, so invest in your online presence rather than traditional offline marketing, directing customers to your website rather than endless paper brochures and leaflets.

Get savvy on energy-efficient hacks

Hair salons inevitably take a lot of lighting and heating to run. Switching to LED bulbs is a simple way to use less electricity. This will both bring down your bills and give you more efficient illumination that lasts longer. Wall insulation can also help regulate room temperatures and reduce your energy by 25%, while programmable thermostats help you to use only what’s essential for heating and cooling your space. Use a green energy supplier and get smart meters installed, so that you only pay for what you’re using.

Sustainable hairdressers need to keep on top of water consumption, too. Conserving this precious resource is important for the environment when it comes to droughts and protecting wildlife habitats. It also saves on your bills. You can invest in low-flow showerheads and taps to minimise water wastage during shampooing and rinsing.

Be firm and fair with staff about using water more efficiently, encouraging them to turn off taps when not in use and only use washing machines when there is a full load. The small actions can contribute to significant water savings over time.

Make better practices part of your culture

Not only can hairdressers introduce eco-friendly sensibilities into your daily routines, you can communicate this ethos to everyone who interacts with your business and make it part of your company mission. Train any staff members on how they’re required to support your shared goals, making it clear that this isn’t a short-term drive for cost-cutting but a sincere ongoing campaign for contributing to a better world.

Shout about what you do to clients and partners; mention your aims and actions on your website, in email newsletters and on social media; you could even talk about it to press if you want to be featured in industry magazines. Get everyone excited about the ways they can get involved and be transparent about the positive effect it will have. Take an interest in news on climate change and environmental issues, so that you can live and breathe your purpose and remain clear on your motivations.

Educate clients about sustainable haircare habits they can implement at home when you advise on aftercare, such as using kinder haircare products and reducing water usage during showers.

Design your salon using a sustainability-first approach

Environmental sustainability in a hairdressing salon is grounded in the design. A space that has been created for responsible operations will make it all the easier to stay on the right track and run your business with integrity, remaining faithful to your mission.

When designing or refurbishing a salon, consider using sustainable materials for flooring, furniture, and decor. Everything from wood to cork and metal can fit the bill for this. Reclaimed or recycled, rather than new, products will help to reduce the environmental impact of renovations and interior updates.

Incorporating natural lighting can also reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, further cutting energy consumption. Large windows and skylights will do wonders for this, while also making for a beautifully bright space that customers will love to spend time in.

Get smart with thoughtful brand collaborations

Sustainability in hairdressing salons can extend beyond your own business. Being selective about who you work with will cement your brand as one that takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. This can extend to the hair products, tools and uniforms you invest in, the influencers you work with and trade shows you appear at.

Partnering with sustainable brands and suppliers not only means you source the right products; these collaborations can also raise your profile if you agree to promote each other’s work and get you seen by right-minded new clients.

You could also join online directories of sustainable businesses, so that you are established as an ethical business or freelancer within a vast global network and seen alongside other reputable names.

Get your hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

When you’re running your own hairdressing business, you want to know that you’re financially supported should anything go wrong. Whether property is damaged, you’re the victim of a crime or an unfortunate incident occurs, having the right insurance will help mitigate the impact on you and your company.

Protectivity have designed Hairdressing Insurance to meet the needs of self-employed salon professionals. If you’re looking for barber insurance, we’ve also got you covered.. With up to £10 million in Public Liability Insurance, you can breathe a little easier if claims are brought against you by a third party. The same amount is covered under Employers’ Liability, in the event that any employees suffer injury or illness. Equipment Cover is up to the amount of £12,000 should you need a replacement due to damage, while Personal Accident Cover offers reassuring protection for loss of income.

Get an instant tailored quote for Protectivity’s Hairdressing Insurance. Our advisors are on hand to help if you need any support.

Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity

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