Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 02:06 pm
Tradesman Saver, a renowned insurance provider for small businesses and tradespeople, has revealed the top five risks that UK businesses are expected to encounter in 2023. These risks have been identified based on insights from risk management experts across 94 countries and territories.
As businesses in the UK continue to grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic and the rise of technologies like artificial intelligence, they will have to adjust their strategies to stay competitive. Here are the top five risks that UK businesses should prepare for in 2023:
- Cyber Incidents: Cyber incidents, including IT outages, ransomware attacks, and data breaches, continue to be the top risk for UK businesses. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and wider geopolitical tensions are increasing the likelihood of large-scale cyber-attacks. Data breaches are a major concern for companies due to the potential for significant notification costs, fines, penalties, and reputational damage. Ransomware attacks remain a top worry as well, with the UK experiencing the third highest rate of such attacks in the world.
- Business Interruption: Business interruption, including supply chain disruption, is another significant risk for UK companies. Despite efforts to diversify business models and supply chains post-pandemic, disruptions persist. The recent turmoil in Ukraine and ongoing global supply chain issues, such as semiconductor shortages, are causing further strain on businesses.
- Macro-Economic Developments: Macro-economic developments, including inflation, deflation, and monetary policies, have emerged as a new risk in 2023. The simultaneous crises in the US, China, and Europe, along with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have led to increasing energy prices and inflation. The UK is currently in a recession, with the economy expected to contract 0.7% in 2023. However, some experts predict a return to growth during the second half of the year as inflation and energy prices begin to stabilize.
- Energy Crisis: The energy crisis, another new entry for 2023, has also impacted businesses. Energy prices have risen due to post-pandemic economic recovery, supply chain disruptions, and delayed maintenance work. The crisis intensified with the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, the world’s largest exporter of fossil fuels. Although the UK relies on Russia for less than 4% of its total gas supply, it remains susceptible to fluctuating international gas prices.
- Shortage of Skilled Workforce: The shortage of skilled workforce, a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic and rising wage inflation, persists as a risk for UK businesses. Many countries, including the UK, face a reduced workforce and high demand for labour. The situation is exacerbated by post-Brexit immigration rules. The construction industry is among the hardest hit, with 75% of contractors experiencing recruitment issues.
Protect Your Business with Public Liability Insurance Tradesman Saver is committed to helping businesses navigate these risks by providing tailored insurance solutions to protect against potential losses. Protect your business with Tradesman Saver’s public liability insurance, and visit our website https://www.tradesmansaver.co.uk/public-liability-insurance/ or call our helpline for more information.
Contact Details
Tradesman Saver
Chancery House
St Nicholas Way
Sutton
Surrey
SM1 1JB
0800 121 8748
tradesmansaver.co.uk
MEDIA CONTACT DETAILS: info@tradesmansaver.co.uk 0800 121 8748
