The article discusses emerging trends and risks in the greenhouse industry that greenhouse operators should be aware of in 2025. The trends include uncertainty surrounding a new presidential administration, escalating commercial auto insurance expenses, ever-present cybersecurity threats, climate change bringing increasing risk of business interruption, and insurance providers leaving the greenhouse industry at an increasing rate.
The uncertainty surrounding the new administration has the potential to impact greenhouse operators through tariffs and labor shortages. To prepare for these risks, operators should buy supplies early and focus on employee retention.
Commercial auto insurance expenses are climbing at an alarming rate due to higher vehicle repair and replacement expenses and a surge in investor-backed litigation. To manage this risk, operators should prioritize safety by conducting comprehensive background checks and reviewing driving histories, as well as using telematics and dash cams.
Cybersecurity threats are also a concern, and operators should consider purchasing cyber liability insurance to cover losses such as repairing damaged equipment, recovering lost revenue during downtime, and paying regulatory fines.
Climate change is a significant risk to greenhouse operators, bringing increasingly severe weather events that can impact their bottom line. To mitigate this risk, operators should prioritize proactive maintenance and assessments to identify and rectify vulnerabilities early on.
The article also highlights the shrinking insurance market for greenhouse businesses, making it harder to secure affordable and comprehensive protection. To mitigate this risk, operators should take proactive steps to reduce their vulnerability to extreme weather and work with an insurer that has industry-specific knowledge to help create a custom insurance plan.