Adding wine or alcohol to your restaurant or café menu can be a real game changer because it boosts profits, enhances the customer experience, and may attract a wider crowd. But with those perks come some serious risks, including legal and financial liabilities.
The good news is that with proper staff training and Liquor Liability Insurance, you can protect your business while making the most of alcohol sales. Discover more about the basics of Liquor Liability Insurance and how Aegis Insurance & Financial Services can help you secure this essential coverage.
Selling Alcohol Can Boost Your Bottom Line
Alcohol sales can seriously increase your revenue since drinks like beer, wine, and cocktails have high profit margins, often between 60% and 80%. Plus, customers who order drinks usually spend more on food, driving up overall sales.
A great drink menu can also set your place apart from the competition and keep people coming back. Plus, you can offer seasonal drinks or specials that make people search out your business during special times of the year, like Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day, or Cinco de Mayo.
The Risks of Serving Alcohol
Of course, selling alcohol does come with important risks to consider. If a customer gets too drunk and causes harm, whether it's a drunk driving accident or a fight, your business could be held legally responsible.
Many states have dram shop laws, which mean businesses that over-serve alcohol can be sued for damages. A single liability lawsuit could cost you a lot of time and money, and damage your business reputation.
In addition, your restaurant, bar, or café could face legal trouble if you inadvertently serve alcohol to a minor. Alcohol sales can change the trajectory of your restaurant or café, but you have to be very aware of the risks.
Why Staff Training Matters
One of the best ways to reduce your liability risk is by making sure your staff knows how to serve alcohol responsibly. Every member of your waitstaff and bar teams should be able to:
- Spot signs of intoxication.
- Check IDs properly to prevent underage sales.
- Follow state and local alcohol laws.
- Handle tricky situations, like cutting someone off without causing a scene.
Texas offers a certification program through the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission to help train your staff to serve responsibly. Investing TABC Certification not only reduces risks but also shows that your business takes alcohol safety seriously.
What Liquor Liability Insurance Does for You
Even with well-trained staff, things can still go wrong. That's why Liquor Liability Insurance is a must-have for any business considering selling wine, alcohol, beer, or cocktails. This type of coverage protects your business from alcohol-related claims, including:
- Legal defense costs.
- Settlements or lawsuit judgments.
- Medical expenses for injured parties.
Without this coverage, you could be on the hook for massive costs if something goes wrong. In many states, landlords and licensing authorities require businesses that serve alcohol to have this insurance.
Protect Your Business with Aegis Insurance & Financial Services
Thinking about adding alcohol to your menu? Already serving but not sure if you have the right coverage? Aegis Insurance & Financial Services can help you find the Liquor Liability Insurance that fits your needs.
Contact Aegis Insurance & Financial Services today at 713-850-7622 to make sure your restaurant, bar, or cafe is protected!