Rethinking manufacturers insurance

New manufacturing technologies are changing how items are made and increasing productivity for companies that invest in them. Processes that used to be physical are now digitized, and the products themselves have more technology embedded. Digitization can accelerate new product/service development and gather valuable information that can spark innovation in next-generation products.

At the same time, however, the implementation of sophisticated manufacturing techniques such as advanced process controls, robotics and automation require not only a large investment, but also an understanding that with emerging technologies come new and heightened operational and cyber security risks.

Recommendation: Manufacturers can benefit from speaking with their business partners, including insurance agents, bankers, advisors and auditors, and lawyers to ensure they evaluate and manage new exposures. Specifically, partnering with an insurance provider that has deep expertise and tailored solutions can help manufacturers using advanced technologies stay ahead of these emerging threats and develop strategies to mitigate risks.

Manufacturers’ relationships with suppliers and customers are increasingly interdependent. As customers demand more speed, more reliable cycle times, and more transparent relationships, manufacturers are expecting the same from their suppliers. All of these factors have led to greater integration between suppliers and customers and with providers of third-party logistics, IT, and financial services.

Consequently, as sensitive data is often a necessary part of these collaborations, the amount of data stored and transacted between parties may be susceptible to a cyberattack. In addition, as turnaround times continue to shrink, and products become more customized, companies’ margin for error shrinks. Yet, many do not consider this type of exposure as part of their insurance program.

Recommendation: A solution that includes broad cyber insurance and knowledgeable risk engineering services can help address a breach when one occurs. For example, a supplier neglects to meet its obligations to the manufacturer, or becomes liable for a harmful product failure. More importantly, with an insurance solution in place, it can prevent a breach from happening in the first place.

Furthermore, having a comprehensive enterprise risk management strategy — one that is regularly updated to keep abreast of change — is increasingly important. One step manufacturing companies can take is a regular review of their enterprise risk strategy, to ensure they have sufficient and proper protections in place.

Many manufacturers are switching from a product-only model to one that also includes a service offering. That is, they have moved beyond simply delivering a product to installing, monitoring, and servicing it. As a result, they are connected with customers and consumers in more ways and for a larger part of the product lifecycle. As their revenues grow from these activities; so do their potential liabilities.

Recommendation: While changes to product and service mix offer new paths to winning, it is important for manufacturers to protect against financial injury that could result from a product or service not meeting customer expectations. While warranties or contractual remedies exist, they alone cannot replace the lost revenue or reputational damage due to an actual or alleged product or service defect or failure to perform. The Manufacturing Errors & Omissions coverage which is offered as an extension under our Chubb Assembly insurance policy can help to fill this often overlooked gap in an insurance program.