Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What is the best approach and cost for renewing trademark registrations in the UK and Europe?
Trademark renewal is straightforward DIY in the UK but requires more careful navigation for EU protection post-Brexit. Members report significant cost variation depending on whether you handle it yourself or use legal support. **UK trademark renewal:** - **DIY via the official UK Intellectual Property Office website** — several members completed this themselves and found it manageable with internet research; no lawyer needed - **Lawyer quotes** — expect £900 + VAT for UK-only renewal through traditional IP lawyers (though this appears on the higher end) **EU trademark renewal (post-Brexit):** - **DIY via Madrid Protocol** — members recommend registering the original trademark in the UK first, then applying for the Madrid Protocol to cover multiple countries in one application; described as "easier" than handling each country separately - **Polish lawyer option** — one member recommended a lawyer in Poland who can handle all EU countries for under £500, significantly cheaper than UK law firm quotes - **Processing time** — expect approximately 6 weeks turnaround from placing the order **Strategic considerations:** - Members suggest protecting your brand across export markets proactively, even if you haven't actively exported yet, to prevent future brand conflicts (one member cited a costly dispute when a competitor launched a similar product) - The Madrid Protocol approach allows you to cover multiple EU countries "in one hit," reducing administrative complexity **Caveat:** The lawyer quotes in the excerpts (£1,800 + VAT for UK and Europe; £900 + VAT for UK only) appear to be at the premium end; the Polish lawyer route and DIY options suggest these are not competitive market rates.
Which insurance providers currently underwrite distilleries, and what are members experiencing with renewal challenges?
Distillery insurance has become increasingly difficult to secure, with many mainstream insurers withdrawing from the market. Members report that their existing insurers are refusing to renew terms, and brokers are warning of high rejection rates from their panels. Providers currently willing to underwrite distilleries include: - **NFU** — actively underwriting distilleries; members report switching to them despite higher premiums; praised for reliable claims payment and strong service - **Aviva** — still accepting distillery accounts - **Capsule Brokers** — recommended as a smaller, B Corp broker specialising in distillery placement - **The Clear Group** — brokerage confirmed to handle distillery insurance - **Gallaghers** — established broker (members' existing point of contact), though they are experiencing difficulty placing new renewals as their panel has largely withdrawn from distillery underwriting Current market context: Members note that perceived risk in the distillery sector has increased, with expectations of significant premium rises. One member speculated this may be linked to elevated claims activity in 2024. The market is tightening, and brokers are warning clients that even preliminary underwriting referrals may result in refusal. Members recommend contacting specialist brokers early rather than waiting until renewal deadlines.