More than one in four UK businesses were affected by civil unrest in 2024, with nearly two-thirds viewing it as a major concern for 2025, according to new research by Gallagher.
Gallagher conducted the study in January 2025, surveying more than 500 UK business decision-makers across companies of all sizes.
Protests and riots were frequent across the UK in 2024, with most occurring in England. Nearly 1,000 protests took place—an average of almost 20 per week—according to ACLED data compiled by Gallagher’s crisis management team.
One of the most significant incidents followed a multiple stabbing in Southport, sparking riots and demonstrations in 27 towns and cities between 30 July and 7 August. Insured losses from these events are estimated at £250 million, with additional millions paid out in public compensation.
Business leaders reported various forms of damage from civil unrest in 2024, including protests, vandalism, looting, and riots. Nearly half (47%) of affected firms had to close their premises, 44% reported property damage, and 40% experienced stolen or damaged stock and equipment.
Many businesses have taken steps to prepare for future incidents, regardless of whether they were directly affected. More than a third (35%) have increased security, 28% have assessed their risk exposure, and 25% have reviewed their insurance coverage.
Business leaders widely blame social media for fueling unrest, with 44% citing the spread of both accurate and misleading information as a key factor. Nearly half (49%) believe the UK’s economic conditions are the primary cause.
Gallagher also highlighted broader social issues as key drivers, with 39% of respondents attributing the incidents to wider challenges facing the country, 36% believing the UK is more divided than five years ago, and 22% pointing to generational wealth imbalance as a contributing factor.
The research also examined the impact of anti-social behaviour, which business leaders view as a greater risk to their operations than terrorism. Among affected businesses, 41% experienced theft, 38% faced threats, and 36% reported vandalism. Retail theft has surged, with shoplifting rising by a third in the 12 months to June 2024, according to the ONS, prompting many retailers to strengthen security measures.
Jonathan Rae, Director of Crisis Management at Gallagher, said, “It is clear that all kinds of civil unrest in the UK is a problem and is weighing heavily on the minds of business leaders. With many of the underlying conditions cited by business leaders still present in the UK, from inflationary pressures to societal division, it is no surprise UK businesses are concerned about another year of anti-social behaviour, and many making plans to protect themselves against its impact.
“Businesses of all types are exposed to civil unrest, and having the right insurance is key to mitigating the impact and any financial losses. UK business leaders should work with an experienced crisis resilience risk adviser who can provide advice and guidance on what insurance is needed to cover different exposures. As well as insuring damage to properties and having the right business interruption cover if firms are unable to trade, businesses should also consider crisis resilience insurance which includes a wide range of cover including risk management advice, access to emergency funds, employee awareness training, 24/7 response consultants, liaison with the authorities and business recovery advice.”
