Retail theft is a growing issue for small business owners, both for large retailers and mom-and-pop stores. Whether it's shoplifting, employee theft, or organized retail crime, merchandise losses eat directly into a company's profits and make it harder to stay afloat.

The good news is that if you're a retail owner, there are smart, affordable ways to reduce theft, beef up your security, and create a safer retail environment for your customers and employees.

In Texas, the summer heat is brutal for most people, but it can be absolutely dangerous for people working in or near the heat. For example, your business might have employees working in hot kitchens, outside on loading docks, or fulfilling customer curbside orders.

For small business owners, failing to prepare for heat-related risks puts your workers in danger, and can lead to a business liability. If one of your employees suffers heat exhaustion or a heat-related injury on the job, the financial fallout could be serious, unless you have proper Workers' Compensation coverage.

When you're running a small business, your time is tight and your budget is usually even tighter. With insurance decisions that have to be made, it's tempting to just grab a quick quote online, click a few boxes, and call it done.

But here's the truth: online insurance can't ever do what a local agent can.

Your business has specific risks, industry challenges, real-world issues, and local exposures. You need someone who knows your market, understands your operation, offers industry expertise, and has your back when things go wrong.

If you own a small business, especially a retail store or restaurant, insurance isn't just a formality. It's your company's financial safety net if disaster strikes.

But not all policies cover the same risks. Two of the most important types of Commercial Insurance coverage for business owners are Commercial Property Insurance and General Liability Insurance.