The Hidden Risks of Trade Shows: Are You Prepared?

• Liability for Injuries and Accidents: Trade shows and conferences have high foot traffic, increasing the likelihood of there being accidents like slips and falls. Vendors can and will be held responsible for injuries that occur at their booths, which can lead to costly legal fees and/or settlements.
• Property Damage: Booths are often filled with expensive equipment to best display or operate the products or services that they are showcasing. This equipment is susceptible to damage during transport, setup, or during the event. This equipment can also occasionally cause damage to the venue space, which vendors will be liable for. To prepare for potential liability issues, vendors should invest in the right insurance coverage.
• Theft and Vandalism: With the large crowds and high volume of foot traffic, theft and vandalism are very common. Small items can easily be stolen, and items can be stolen after the event has closed. Vendors should take safety measures, such as using locked display cases, and securing valuable items. There are also some insurance plans that cover theft and vandalism.
• Product Liability: If products showcased or sold at the event cause injury or damage, vendors will be held responsible. It is important to properly secure heavy equipment, and ensure that they are structurally sound. In other cases, where vendors are selling food and consumable items, they will need to carry product liability insurance that will protect them from liability claims from using or consuming your products.
• Contractual Obligations: Vendors need to comply with all event organizer requirements and regulations. Failure to comply can result in vendors being fined, or in some cases even being removed from the event altogether. The event organizer’s goal is to run a safe and successful event, so it is important to follow their regulations and guidelines.
• Unexpected Cancellations: Trade shows can be canceled or rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances, leading to significant losses for both the event organizers and vendors. There are certain insurance plans that cover non-refundable expenses in the case that an event is canceled unexpectedly.

Being aware of all of these hidden risks ensures that you as a vendor can be properly prepared for your next event. When you are properly prepared, you can focus on your booth and event instead of worrying about liability or other potential issues. Lyon Insure helps conference organisers streamline the compliance process, ensuring all vendors are properly insured, enhancing the success of your event. Send us an email at team@lyoninsure.com to learn more.