A new survey from Gallagher, a global insurance brokerage and consulting firm, reveals that U.S. business owners are taking significant steps to shield their operations from a wide range of external threats. The survey, conducted between March 21 and April 2, 2025, sampled 1,000 U.S. business owners and offers a data-driven look into the concerns and actions of businesses navigating current risk environments.
High Levels of Concern Around Cyberattacks and AI
According to the report, cyberattacks top the list of concerns for U.S. business owners, with 72% expressing strong concern about the impact of such events in the coming year, up from 69% in 2024. In response, 36% of respondents stated an intent to either acquire or increase insurance coverage for cyber risks.
Concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) have also grown, with 93% of respondents reporting at least some level of worry about its potential effects on their businesses, compared to 85% the previous year. Nearly all business owners surveyed agreed that stronger regulation (95%) and protection (90%) surrounding AI are necessary. Despite concerns, 46% of respondents plan to increase investment in AI to enhance operations.
Supply Chain Resilience in Focus
Disruptions in supply chains remain a pressing issue, with 69% of respondents expressing concern, an increase from 68% in 2024. To address potential vulnerabilities, business owners are adopting various technologies:
- 40% are investing in artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve supply chain forecasting and responsiveness.
- 37% are leveraging supply chain automation.
- 37% are turning to cloud computing.
Additionally, 75% of business owners have contingency suppliers in place, a proactive move to minimize the impact of unexpected disruptions.
Insurance Claims and Coverage Gaps
The study also explored insurance usage trends. Among U.S. business owners with insurance coverage, 87% reported filing a claim in 2024. A majority of those claims (73%) were valued at $25,000 or more. The types of coverage most frequently used included:
- Property insurance (29%)
- Employment practices liability (28%)
- Cyber insurance (27%)
- Flood insurance (27%)
Weather-Related Risks Prompt Relocation and Fortification
Severe weather ranks equally with supply chain and cyber threats in concern levels, cited by 69% of respondents. In light of this, 57% of business owners have considered relocating or upgrading their facilities to better withstand extreme conditions. Among those considering relocation:
- 44% would move within the same state.
- 44% would move to a different state.
- 11% would consider relocating to a different region entirely.
Flooding stands out as a specific concern, identified by 35% of business owners as a threat to either their own operations or their suppliers. However, only 30% currently have flood insurance. Of those with flood insurance, 71% have filed at least one claim, and 27% have filed multiple claims. Among those currently without flood coverage, 80% said they are likely to purchase it within the next year.
Following claims related to weather events, respondents have taken additional steps to protect against future incidents. Reported actions include safeguarding against:
- Floods (40%)
- Fires (39%)
- Wind damage (37%)
- Hurricanes (32%)
- Hailstorms (31%)
Methodology
The survey was conducted online by Wakefield Research between March 21 and April 2, 2025. It involved 1,000 U.S. business owners and maintains a 95% confidence level with a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points.
About Gallagher
Gallagher (NYSE: AJG) is one of the world’s largest insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firms. As a community insurance broker and trusted local consultant, we help people and businesses move forward with confidence. With more than 56,000 people working around the globe, we are connected to the places where we do business and to every community we call home. Managing risk with customized solutions and a full spectrum of services, helping you foster a thriving workforce, and always holding ourselves to the highest standards of ethics to help you face every challenge – that is The Gallagher Way. https://ajg.com
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