A resurgence of bedbug infestations across the U.S. has become a growing concern for homeowners and commercial businesses nationwide.

"Industries at risk include the retail/wholesale businesses,” noted Mac Nadel, Marsh Retail/Wholesale, Food & Beverage Practice. “Bedbug infestations can interrupt the normal flow of business if stores need to be closed down, and can have a negative impact on consumer confidence.  Retailers need to understand the various sources of infestation, and how to properly manage the damages.  A fundamental principle of crisis management is to be proactive – anticipate impacts on your organization and plan ahead.”

Marsh recommends the following actions to minimize the impact of a bedbug incident for retail/wholesale businesses:

• Call in a reputable exterminator immediately.
• Designate a single spokesperson for all media inquiries.
• Prepare a media statement.
• Instruct employees to accept returns, with limited questions asked.
• Have a plan in place on how to handle/isolate returned goods.
• Close stores temporarily, if necessary.
• Ensure that contaminated products are appropriately handled.
• Communicate with employees.
• If the store is located in a mall, inform mall management.

Please review this alert from Marsh's Retail/Wholesale, Food & Beverage Practice for further detail.