Fail to prepare, prepare to fail 

The knock-on impact of a natural catastrophe is likely to impact all business operations. Whether the head office is physically impacted, or parts of the supply chain can’t function, a business will quickly become unstuck if the right plans and protection are not in place. 

For example, most companies rely on a range of transport options to keep their businesses moving - from cargo ships running through ports, trucks crossing countries or freight planes delivering goods. If there’s a halt in deliveries, shut ports, or cancelled cargo flights, the impact can be swift, significant and difficult to rectify.

As productivity drops, revenues fall and ultimately customer satisfaction takes a hit. Events of this nature are sector agnostic, often impacting agriculture to aviation, transport to tourism. In extreme cases, a ripple effect is created around the world, impacting not just one economy, but many.  

Nature is rarely rushed, and events can last a long time, leaving businesses stuck in limbo. Scrutinising a whole supply chain is essential, to ensure the origin of disruptions, and any climate-related causes, are mitigated against. However, given the unpredictability of these disasters, having protection in place will ultimately be the strongest assurance.