When Business Insurance Gets Personal in Scarborough
We often say that business plans are essential, but the ability to adapt when things go off-script is just as vital. In October, we welcomed Blip Insurance to our Scarborough headquarters for what was supposed to be a standard meet-and-greet. It quickly turned into something much more significant for our local business community.
As a member of the National Enterprise Network, we are always looking for partners who understand the reality of running a company. We don't want corporate jargon; we want practical solutions that actually help our members. The visit from Blip proved that they are cut from the same cloth as us.
A Morning That Went Off-Script
Gary Ross and Ed Smith from Blip arrived with a simple itinerary: attend our 8:30 am networking session, shake a few hands, and head back to London.
However, the energy in the room had other plans. Our local founders were buzzing with questions, ideas, and the usual start-up challenges. Seeing this engagement, we threw a curveball at Gary and Ed. We asked if they would stay a bit longer and join our "Managing Finances" session, a programme we run for unemployed learners and early-stage start-ups.
It was a manic transition—even by our standards—but they didn't hesitate. They rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in.
Instead of a polished sales pitch, our learners got genuine expertise. Gary and Ed offered real-world encouragement to a room full of people who are just finding their feet in the business world. It gave the Blip team a snapshot of the varied work we do here, supporting everyone from side-hustlers to established enterprises, often within the same hour.
The Value of Human Connection
Ed Smith later noted on LinkedIn how amazed he was by the "wild and wonderful businesses" operating in our area. He highlighted a key point that resonates with our own philosophy:
"No chatbots – just humans!"
This is exactly what we preach at Yorkshire in Business. Whether you are defining your target market or sorting out your liability cover, you need to deal with people who listen. The digital age is fantastic for efficiency, but when you are worried about risk or cash flow, you want a conversation, not an automated response.
A Practical Financial Tip for You
Part of our role is to help you find your "why"—the purpose beyond just making money. But let's be direct: saving money is also a massive priority.
Our CEO, Jenn Crowther, is an entrepreneur herself with two coffee shops. She decided to test the waters with Blip before recommending them to the network.
"I thought what better way to support my own enterprise agency than by switching my two coffee shop insurance policies to Blip," Jenn explained. "Not only was the quote process simpler, the price was less than half of my existing provider."
If you are looking to trim your overheads as we head into the new year, this is a practical step you can take today. By switching, you also generate a kickback that helps fund the support work we do here.
- Visit: justablip.co.uk/insights/yorkshireinbusiness
- Use code:
YIBFUND
Jenn is already joking about a Blip tour bus supported by the NEN, and after seeing how well they integrated with our community, we wouldn't rule it out.
Building Your Support Network
This visit showcased exactly what happens when supportive networks and committed partners come together. Our learners gained industry insight, our local businesses got a clearer understanding of risk, and we strengthened a partnership that brings tangible value to Scarborough.
We are already discussing future visits and events. With Christmas fast approaching, now is the time to look at your business planning and operational costs for the year ahead.
If you need help identifying your target market, structuring your business plan, or just want to join a network that actually supports you, come and see us. We are here to provide the practical guidance you need to make your business work.