It’s the time of year when craft breweries look back on what they’ve accomplished–and look ahead to new goals set for the new year. For many microbreweries, those new goals include wider distribution to get their brews into the hands of the thirsty public—but Beall Brewery Insurance points out that once the beer leaves the brewery for a retail establishment, certain risks come into play. In fact, craft breweries that sell their beer to retailers, bars, or restaurants are placing the safety of their product in other people’s hands.

To ensure your product is safe—and its quality undiminished—after it leaves the brewery, follow these tips:

• Investigate your potential distributor thoroughly. Learn about how the truck fleet is managed, what driver controls are in place, and details of the company’s safety program..
• Request a certificate of insurance from your distributor for their general liability, business auto, property in transit, and workers compensation coverage.
• Request to be added as an additional insured on your distributor’s general liability and business auto coverage.
• Request a waiver of subrogation for their workers compensation coverage.
• Ensure that your brewery has a plan in case you need to recall your beer from retail placements.

For more than 25 years, Beall Financial and Insurance Services, Inc., has been helping corporations and individuals protect their most important assets. The agency’s client base covers a spectrum of niche businesses, such as craft breweries, that require specialized insurance packages and knowledge. With California offices in Redlands and Newport Beach, Beall Financial and Insurance Services serves clients nationwide.