What product liability and recall insurance should early-stage drinks brands get, and what are reasonable excess levels?

Early-stage brands without physical premises should prioritise product liability insurance through specialist brokers who understand the drinks industry. Several members have found good value through brokers and trade associations rather than direct insurers.

**Recommended providers:** - **Towergate** — contact Ian.Hughes@towergate.co.uk; members recommend them for product liability - **Superscript** — noted as nice and cheap for all the basics needed by early-stage brands - **Sutton Winson** — described as very good, insured multiple members for years - **National Farmers Union** — recommended by members - **Federation of Small Businesses** — has a dedicated insurance service with good prices

**Recall insurance specifics:** Members warn that recall-only policies with very high excesses can be poor value. One member was offered £7k annual recall cover with a £100k excess, which they considered a waste of money. Others have secured recall insurance with more reasonable £30k excesses at around £9k per year.

**Key takeaway:** For early-stage brands, focus on comprehensive product liability rather than standalone recall policies with punitive excess levels. Use a broker familiar with drinks brands to negotiate better terms.