Even though lockdown rules have eased, many business owners still struggle to reopen. It’s about putting safety measures in place and regaining customer trust. But, this takes careful planning to meet regulations and stay financially stable.
At Professional Saver, we’ve helped many businesses during these tough times with insurance solutions designed for professionals and business owners. Our experts have compiled strategies for reopening a business after lockdown. This guide can help you reopen safely, avoid risks, and protect your business.
Safety First: Risk Assessment and Planning
Before reopening your business premises, conducting a thorough risk assessment is essential. This process helps identify potential hazards. It also determines appropriate control measures to protect staff, customers, and visitors.
Your risk assessment should include:
- Evaluating your workplace layout, where you identify high-traffic areas
- Assessing ventilation systems and air quality
- Identifying surfaces that multiple people frequently touch
- Determining maximum occupancy based on space constraints
- Reviewing emergency procedures and evacuation plans
Document your findings and share them with your staff. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides helpful templates and advice for COVID-19 risk assessments. These are still useful for general hygiene and safety.
What Health Measures Should You Implement?
Based on your risk assessment, you’ll need to implement appropriate health and safety measures. Specific requirements may vary depending on your business type. As a starting guideline, these universal precautions are recommended:
Hygiene Protocols
Good hygiene is still important even after the pandemic. Set up hand sanitising stations at entrances, exits, and key areas. Clean high-touch surfaces often, like door handles, payment terminals, and shared equipment. Improve ventilation by opening windows and doors or upgrading air systems.
Use clear signs to remind staff and customers about hand hygiene. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed to keep everyone safe.
Social Distancing Considerations
Social distancing rules are no longer required, but many customers still prefer some space. Adjust workspaces and customer areas to create a comfortable distance. Use screens or barriers in close-contact areas and set up one-way systems in narrow spaces.
Floor markings in shops can help guide movement and queues. To reduce crowding, stagger appointment times or extend business hours.
Staff Considerations and Training
Your employees play a critical role in implementing your reopening strategy successfully. Proper communication and training are essential.
Employee Health and Wellbeing
| Consideration | Action Steps |
| Mental health | Provide access to support resources and regular check-ins |
| Physical health | Encourage staff to stay home when unwell |
| Concerns and feedback | Establish clear channels for staff to raise issues |
| Flexible working | Consider hybrid working options where possible |
| Training needs | Ensure staff are confident with new procedures |
Training Requirements
Train your staff thoroughly on new health and safety procedures. Teach them how to handle customer questions, use new equipment, and manage difficult situations. Make sure they understand any updates to emergency protocols.
Remember that your insurance policy may require evidence of staff training. In particular, the health and safety measures you’ve worked on. Keep detailed records of all training sessions and attendees.
How Can You Reassure Your Customers?
Rebuilding customer confidence is vital for business recovery. Clear communication about your steps to ensure their safety can make a significant difference.
Effectively communicate your safety measures through:
- Website updates detailing your safety protocols
- Social media announcements highlighting changes
- Email newsletters to your customer database
- Clear signage throughout your premises
- Staff who are prepared to answer questions confidently
Many businesses feel that transparency about safety measures has become a competitive advantage. Customers are choosing establishments where they feel most comfortable.
Updating Your Business Operations
The pandemic has sped up many changes that businesses may want to keep long-term. Think about which changes could help your business in the future.
Digital Transformation
Customers now expect more digital options. Consider keeping or introducing:
- Online booking
- Click-and-collect services
- Virtual consultations
- Contactless payments
Digital loyalty programmes help keep customers engaged and encourage repeat business. Investing in these tools can improve customer experience and streamline operations.
Supply Chain Review
Use this time to review your supply chain’s resilience. This includes:
- Looking for weaknesses that were exposed during lockdown.
- Considering using local suppliers when possible.
Also, create backup plans for essential supplies and check your stock management procedures. Think about making sustainability improvements to strengthen your supply chain.
Marketing Your Reopening Strategy
A strong marketing plan will help announce your reopening and attract customers back to your business.
Multi-Channel Approach
Use different marketing channels to expand your reach. Update your Google Business profile with your current hours and services. Share engaging content on social media to highlight your reopening. Advertise locally in community publications and collaborate with complementary businesses for cross-promotion. Lastly, encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews.
Special Offers and Incentives
Attract customers back with special promotions. Offer loyalty rewards for returning customers and limited-time discounts. Host special events to celebrate your reopening and give loyal customers exclusive previews. Bundle deals can also help increase sales.
Insurance Considerations When Reopening
Make sure your business insurance still fits your needs as you reopen. Any changes to your business may mean updates to your coverage. Professional Saver offers insurance from £54 per year. This includes professional indemnity and public liability cover up to £5 million.
When reopening, consider:
- Updating your insurer about any changes to your business activities.
- Reviewing your coverage limits to ensure adequate protection.
- Checking if any new equipment or stock requires extra cover.
- Confirming your public liability insurance covers your current operations.
- Documenting your safety measures for potential insurance claims.
Start Your Business Reopening with Confidence
Reopening your business after lockdown brings both challenges and opportunities. You can make the transition smooth with careful planning and the right safety measures. Don’t underestimate clear communication with staff and customers.
Professional Saver understands the unique insurance needs of businesses during these times. With 40 years of experience, we offer expert insurance solutions for professionals in many industries. Get a quote today to protect your business properly as you reopen.
