Business protection under the spotlight at Thrings’ latest Business Health Matters webinar.
Practical tips and legal advice on how businesses can protect themselves from disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic were on offer yesterday as business owners and professional advisors logged on for Thrings’ latest Business Health Matters webinar.
The webinar was the fifth in Thrings’ series of online events - launched in response to a recent client listening programme - which focus on helping clients and advisors minimise the day-to-day impact of Covid-19 and aid their business recovery over the months ahead.
Restructuring and insolvency partner Melissa George walked attendees though key aspects on the Finance Act 2020 – which came into effect in July - including the implications of changes which see HMRC taking preference over most other creditors of a business, the impact on funding, and the risk profile of guarantees, directors’ duties and wrongful trading laws.
This was followed by a look at business interruption insurance, with commercial litigation partner Caroline Watson using the recent Financial Conduct Authority’s test case to highlight insurers’ responsibilities and requirements when it comes to paying out on Covid-related claims.
Intellectual property partner Megan Jefferies brought matters to a conclusion, looking at how businesses’ brands will be affected by the UK’s departure from the EU and offering attendees practical steps on trademark protection in the post-Brexit era.
Hosted by Caroline Watson and chaired by corporate consultant Chris Elias, the Business Health Matters webinars have focused on key issues affecting certain industries – including agriculture, commercial property and family businesses - as they recover from the pandemic.
They have also addressed specific issues affecting all businesses such as the operation of force majeure contract clauses, business interruption insurance, and cash flow and debtor management.
Caroline Watson said: “The Business Health Matters webinars have provided a fascinating insight into the many ways the pandemic has challenged medium to large-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs across the UK.
“Our client listening programme has helped us identify the key issues facing our clients, react quickly to them, and shape the webinars to ensure they deliver interesting and relevant content. Their informal and interactive nature have also provided an environment for participants to share their experiences and discuss the steps they are taking in the post-Covid era.
“We are grateful to everyone who has taken part in the five webinars so far and look forward to welcoming them back when the webinars recommence in the new year.”
For more information about the webinars – including details on how to watch them again via Thrings’ YouTube channel – please visit Thrings’ Business Health Matters portal. If you would like to attend a Business Health Matters webinar in the future, please get in touch.