Category: Small Business General

Categories
Insurance Small Business General Tariffs

Surviving Texas Small Business Tariffs

Tariffs are tightening the squeeze on small businesses in Texas. For retailers in sporting goods, toys, and home goods, the pressure is building fast. In 2023, Texas imported $92 billion worth of goods from China and $107 billion from Mexico, but with Texas small business tariffs now hitting both sources, costs are rising, and margins are shrinking

Whether you’re managing tight inventory or trying to stay competitive against big-box retailers, the trade landscape is shifting—and fast. At Gild Insurance, we’re here to help you face it head-on with the tools, protection, and practical strategies outlined in our Survive Tariffs runbook to help your business stay resilient.

Let’s take a closer look at how Texas small business tariffs are affecting retailers and what you can do right now to reduce your risk.

The Real Impact of Texas Small Business Tariffs on Retailers

Retailers importing products like yoga mats, dumbbells, or children’s toys are facing an uphill battle. Tariffs on Chinese imports have fluctuated significantly, at times reaching levels that substantially increase costs—particularly for small businesses that lack the purchasing power and profit margins of larger competitors. Even at the low end, Chinese tariffs remain above 30%. 

Many are also grappling with supply chain slowdowns at Gulf Coast ports, making restocking difficult and expensive. And in regions near the border, price-sensitive customers are shopping in Mexico, adding another layer of competition that favors big-box stores.

For small businesses in cities like Houston and Dallas, where they play a vital economic role, these tariffs are not just a nuisance—they’re a threat to survival.

3 Ways Texas Retailers Can Stay Resilient

If you’re in retail—especially in toys, sporting goods, or home décor—here are a few actionable strategies to consider:

  • Diversify Sourcing: Shift more of your imports to Mexico or other tariff-exempt countries to reduce reliance on Chinese goods.
  • Blend Domestic Inventory: Integrate U.S.-made products into your offerings. They may have higher sticker prices but can offer stability and branding advantages.
  • Adopt Lean Inventory Practices: Use just-in-time inventory systems and smarter demand forecasting to avoid tying up cash in overstocked, high-tariff goods.

These tactics won’t eliminate risk but they will give your business more control in an unpredictable environment.

How Inland Marine Insurance Helps You Handle Texas Small Business Tariffs

When importing goods or managing a mobile inventory, there’s one more step you can take to shield your business: Inland Marine Insurance.

Unlike standard property policies, Inland Marine Insurance covers:

  • Goods in transit
  • Inventory stored offsite
  • High-value movable property

If a shipment is delayed, damaged, or stolen on its way to your retail floor, you’ll be glad to have this extra layer of protection. And in the current tariff climate, that peace of mind is worth its weight in gold. Schedule a time to talk to an agent and get the protection your business deserves

Stay Protected with Gild Insurance

While you can’t control international trade policy, you can control how you protect your inventory and manage your risk. At Gild Insurance, we specialize in helping small businesses like yours stay resilient through changing times—with insurance solutions that work the way you do.

Want to learn more?

👉Download the Tariffs Runbook today to stay informed, stay protected, and stay ahead. 

👉Want personalized help? Schedule a call with Gild Insurance and discover smarter ways to protect your business—now and into the future 

Categories
Insurance Small Business General Tariffs

California Retailers: How to Stay Afloat with Tariffs

The Liberation Day tariffs are reshaping the retail landscape—and for California retailers, the impact is immediate. Rising import costs, shipment delays, and shrinking margins are hitting businesses from all sides, from e-commerce giants to boutique apparel shops.

According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, approximately 40% of U.S. containerized imports move through California ports, with China accounting for $144 billion in trade through the state in 2023 (USTR). The result? California retailers tariffs are now driving up product prices by 10–30%, slowing shipments by weeks, and forcing urgent changes to sourcing, pricing, and supply chain strategies.

At Gild Insurance, we help retailers adapt to uncertainty with smarter protection strategies, flexible insurance coverage, and practical business guidance. Below, we break down the risks California retailers face and what you can do to stay ahead.

How California Retailers Tariffs Are Disrupting the Supply Chain

Real-time data shows California retailers are being squeezed from both ends: rising import costs and declining consumer spending. Here’s how it’s unfolding:

  • Heavy import reliance: The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach handle over 40% of U.S. containerized imports, making California retailers especially vulnerable to global trade disruption (LAEDC).
  • Industry vulnerability: Tariffs on key goods like apparel and electronics are driving up costs significantly. According to the Consumer Technology Association, tariffs could raise laptop and tablet prices by up to 46%, and smartphones by 26%. Apparel has seen price increases of over 17% in some categories (CTA, Yale Budget Lab).
  • Cash flow risk: SBA data shows 20% of small firms have fewer than 90 days of cash reserves, putting them at risk of insolvency by Q3 2025 if cost pressures continue (SBA).
  • Port delays: Ongoing congestion at California’s major ports is contributing to 2–4 week shipment delays—disrupting just-in-time inventory strategies and consumer satisfaction.

California retailers tariffs aren’t just economic headlines. They’re already affecting stock, pricing, and operational stability across the state.

Why Retailers Must Act Now to Stay Competitive

Tariffs aren’t going away anytime soon. They’re part of a broader global trend toward protectionism. If California retailers don’t adapt quickly, they risk:

  • Squeezed profit margins due to higher input costs
  • Lost customers as prices rise or products go out of stock
  • Operational downtime from shipment delays or supplier issues
  • Greater exposure to legal or reputational risk from product issues or missed delivery windows

Adaptation isn’t optional; it’s critical. California retailers must audit their sourcing, protect their cash flow, and build in safeguards now.

How Insurance Helps California Retailers Weather Tariff Fallout

Insurance isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a proactive risk solution. Gild Insurance helps California retailers stay resilient in turbulent markets with coverage tailored to your industry. Recommended policies include:

🔗 Schedule a time with a Gild agent to audit your policies and see how you could save up to 20% while reinforcing your protection.

🔗 Get an online quote today and see how fast and affordable smart coverage can be.

Smart Strategies for California Retailers Facing Tariff Disruption

To stay afloat in the face of rising California retailers tariffs, small business owners should:

  • Source smarter: Shift to partners in Mexico, Canada, or Vietnam where possible.
  • Consolidate inventory: Negotiate better terms with bulk domestic suppliers.
  • Pivot to service models: Offer customization, repairs, or faster local fulfillment.
  • Audit import exposure: If 30% or more of your inventory comes from tariffed countries, prioritize diversification.
  • Leverage insurance: Use coverage to buffer supply chain, liability, and revenue risks.

Gild can help you implement these tactics quickly and confidently.

Partner Resources to Reduce Costs and Risk

Gild collaborates with trusted providers to help retailers build resilience:

  • Rocket Lawyer – Simplify annual reporting and stay on top of required tax filings
  • RangeMe – Find vetted, tariff-exempt suppliers in North America
  • Envision Payroll – Cut back-office costs with scalable payroll solutions
  • Owners Bank – Access funding to cushion against cost increases or shipment delays

These partnerships offer immediate tools to offset tariff fallout.

Protect What You’ve Built

California retailers face a tough road ahead—but with the right strategy, you can stay ahead. From insurance to smarter sourcing and partner support, Gild is here to help you navigate the shifting trade landscape. 

👉Download the Tariffs Runbook today to stay informed, stay protected, and stay ahead.  

👉Want personalized help? Schedule a call with Gild Insurance and discover smarter ways to protect your business—now and into the future 

Categories
Business Owners Policy (BOP) Liability Insurance Small Business General Workers' Compensation

5 Essential Reasons Why Your Business Needs Insurance

As Memorial Day kicks off the summer rush, small businesses across the country are prepping for seasonal surges, pop-up events, and patriotic promotions. While you’re focused on driving sales and bringing in more foot traffic, don’t overlook one of your most important assets—protection. At Gild Insurance, we believe protecting your business is just as important as growing it. That’s why we’re sharing the 5 essential reasons why your business need insurance this Memorial Day and beyond.

5 Essential Reasons Why Your Business Needs Insurance This Memorial Day

1. Increased Holiday Foot Traffic Means More Risk

When customers flood in for Memorial Day sales and celebrations, your liability risk rises.

If someone slips on a wet floor or is injured near your setup at a pop-up event, general liability insurance can cover medical costs, legal fees, and settlements.

Why this matters now:

  • One claim can cost thousands. Without coverage, it could come out of your pocket.
  • Memorial Day weekend is one of the top five shopping holidays in the U.S.
  • Outdoor events and vendor spaces increase accident risks.

At Gild, we make it easy to get a quote and secure the protection you need—fast.

2. You’re Hiring Seasonal Workers

Many small businesses bring in extra help during the holiday or summer months. If you’re hiring, workers’ compensation coverage is essential. It’s required in most states and helps cover medical bills, lost wages, and more.

With Gild’s support, you can match your policy to your staffing needs. Plus, our partner Envision Payroll can simplify hiring and payroll, helping you stay compliant without the hassle.

3. Pop-Ups and Vendors Often Require Proof of Coverage

If you’re participating in a holiday market or event, you’ll likely need to show Certificates of Insurance (COIs). Without them, you could miss out on high-traffic opportunities.

This is another reason why your business need insurance this Memorial Day. Gild helps you request and send COIs quickly, so you can book events without delay.

4. You’ve Got More Inventory to Protect

Stocking up for the holiday rush? Whether your products are on shelves, in storage, or on the road, you need a plan to protect them.

Commercial property insurance helps cover inventory losses due to theft, fire, or weather. It ensures your investment is safe—wherever your products go.

And if damage or loss happens, Gild’s Claims Concierge is here to help you recover quickly. We fast-track repairs and replacements, so you don’t lose precious time or revenue during the busiest season.

5. It’s Time to Protect What You’ve Built

Memorial Day is a time for reflection and gratitude. It’s also a moment to honor your own hard work as a business owner. If you’re expanding operations, purchasing equipment, or applying for funding, now is the time to strengthen your foundation.

Gild offers flexible policies that grow with your business. And with Owners Bank, you can explore small business-friendly financing to support your next big move.

Protect Your Business with Gild This Memorial Day

You’ve worked hard to build something meaningful. Don’t let one unexpected incident set you back. These 5 essential reasons why your business need insurance are a reminder to take action now—before the holiday rush peaks.

Gild Insurance makes it easy to get protected, stay compliant, and move forward with confidence.

→ Let’s protect what you’ve built. Get a quote today.

Categories
Insurance Partners Small Business General

Gild Insurance Partners with Billy.com to Bring Contractors Coverage 

At Gild Insurance, we’re on a mission to make business and health insurance simple, accessible, and tailored to the needs of independent contractors. Today, we’re excited to announce our new partnership with Billy.com—a leading platform that connects customers with trusted local professionals who are ready to deliver essential services right when they’re needed.

Through this partnership, Billy.com professionals now have access to Gild’s Insurance solutions and dedicated support whether they’re looking to protect their business, their health, or both. 

What Billy.com Contractors Get with Gild

Contractors using Billy.com to grow their business have even more reasons to get excited. Through our new partnership, Billy.com users gain access to exclusive insurance benefits designed to support independent professionals on and off the job.

Here’s what Billy.com contractors can expect:

This collaboration is about more than just insurance. It’s about giving contractors the tools to grow, protect, and sustain their business with confidence.

Start a Partnership with Gild Insurance

Ready to transform how you support small business owners? Partner with Gild to deliver seamless, end-to-end customer service tailored to their needs—when and how they want it. Whether you’re seeking an embedded insurance solution, a custom insurance program, or a dedicated insurance agency, we’re here to make it happen. Let’s connect and build the future together! 

Have questions? Contact us at partner@yourgild.com. 

Categories
Insurance Partners Small Business General

Storm Preparedness Tips and Fast Support from Gild’s Claims Concierge

Severe weather season is here—and that means it’s time to act. From hail and heavy winds to flooding and fallen trees, property damage can strike fast and derail your business. These storm preparedness tips will help you minimize downtime, avoid confusion, and recover faster.

And with Gild’s Claims Concierge, you won’t have to navigate the aftermath alone.

Storm Preparedness Tips to Avoid Getting Caught Off Guard

Even the best-run businesses can be vulnerable to extreme weather. The cost of not being prepared? Lost revenue, delayed projects, and expensive repairs.

Here’s what you can do today:

  • Review your insurance policy and know what’s covered
  • Keep photos and videos of your property on file
  • Create a contact list of vendors, contractors, and insurers
  • Secure loose items outdoors and protect windows
  • Save your insurance documents in a digital folder

Gild Insurance takes it a step further. If a storm damages your property, our Claims Concierge handles the claims process for you from inspection to repair.

Storm Preparedness Tips Only Go So Far—Here’s What Happens Next

Storm damage can be overwhelming. But Gild’s four-step Claims Concierge makes recovery simple and fast:

✅ Step 1: Sign Up for Claims Support and Storm Preparedness Tips

Complete a short form so we can match you with a partner claims advisor.

✅ Step 2: Let Us Handle It

We work directly with adjusters, so you don’t have to chase anyone down.

✅ Step 3: Repairs Begin Immediately

Once your claim is approved, work starts right away—even before your insurance check arrives.

✅ Step 4: Stay in the Loop

You’ll receive real-time updates through email, text, or phone—whichever you prefer.

Fast, Free Support—Even If You’re Not a Gild Policyholder

Severe weather doesn’t care who your insurance carrier is—and neither do we. Gild’s Claims Concierge is free for both policyholders and non-policyholders.

When you use our service, you get:

  • Faster claims processing 
  • Vetted and approved network of contractors 
  • Better experience, fewer delays 

If you’ve been searching for storm preparedness tips that go beyond “buy sandbags,” this is it: get expert help, and get it fast.

Stay One Step Ahead—Start with Gild

Preparation is essential, but action is everything. Gild is here to make sure you’re not alone when the storm hits—and not stuck after it passes.

👉 Sign up for Gild’s Claims Concierge
👉 Review your policy with an agent
👉 Download a storm preparedness checklist

Storm preparedness tips only go so far. Let’s protect what you’ve built—together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What should I do immediately after storm damage occurs? Ensure safety first, then document all damages with photos and videos. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. Gild’s Claims Concierge is a service that provides personalized support throughout the insurance claims process, helping policyholders navigate post-storm recovery efficiently.

Q2: How can I prepare my home for storm season? Secure loose items, reinforce windows and doors, trim trees, and review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage.

Q3: How long does it take to process a storm damage insurance claim? Processing times vary based on the extent of damage and the volume of claims, but initiating the claim promptly and providing thorough documentation can expedite the process.