Pepper, Johnstone & Company Blog

Deep down, just about every American dreams of opening a small business. Being your own boss carries a singular allure. But those of us who summon the courage to do so may not succeed. Nearly one in five small...

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Builders and the property owners who hire them help America grow. But where there’s reward, there’s risk-especially when erecting or remodeling buildings. Before construction can even begin, you’ll need all the relevant...

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It’s a sad fact of life that where business goes, theft and fraud follow. In the 21st century, business is online. Vaults have been replaced by mainframes, wallets by tap-to-pay apps. Our money has migrated from fabric...

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As adults, we know that nothing’s guaranteed. Life is dangerous and unpredictable. In 2023, 112 Americans died each day in traffic collisions–more than two fatalities for every state. Difficult as it is to ponder, we...

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In the USA, business is more than a way to make money-it’s a way of life. But when the wheel of innovation turns, some are lifted while others fall. Thousands of small businesses fail each year for predictable reasons:...

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It’s easy to think of insurance like umbrellas-it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. But for business insurance, especially, that’s an incomplete analogy. In truth, insurance is more...

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Having life insurance is absolutely necessary for individuals who want to provide financial security for their surviving loved ones. Life can be very unpredictable, and life insurance allows you to plan for the future...

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Businesses in Alabama have a lot to think about on a daily basis: bottom lines, quarterly projections, employee satisfaction-the list goes on and on. For ultimate peace of mind while you build your organization’s...

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The notion and nature of “work” is changing across America. Enlightened by pandemic-era alterations to the daily grind, and fueled by a realignment of labor values, today’s workforce is not so easily understood or...

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Rumors of retail’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. Storefronts throughout Athens and Huntsville, AL are full of products, and the thrill of window shopping didn’t die out once the internet went live. Retailers are...

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We have to face it at some point: life ends, but your support of your family doesn’t have to. Life insurance is a necessary part of a robust insurance portfolio, one that brings solace to you and your loved ones. But...

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The tech revolution in Alabama and the greater southeast is heating up, bringing much-needed jobs and 21st century economic clout to the region. As the “Rocket City,” Huntsville, AL, leads the way for information...

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Numbers of nearly every kind are often disregarded as being impersonal or cold. Even so, it’s impossible to deny that there are vital numbers at the core of our personal and professional lives. As an accountant, you...

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You and your nonprofit organization have answered a calling to help those in need. Whether you’re dedicated to ending hunger in your community, raising awareness for dire social issues, or advocating for members of a...

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The construction industry is a minefield of risk. Each year, slips and falls, vehicular accidents, hazardous chemicals, and combustible materials claim lives. In fact, more than a few common jobs throughout the...

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Lately, Alabama’s “Rocket City” has been living up to its name in a big way. Huntsville, AL is on track to set another record year for population growth, economic opportunity and just about every other outstanding...

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As a restaurateur, you already knew what the rest of the nation (and world) discovered during the pandemic-that restaurants are fragile entities that struggle to keep their doors open in the best of times, let alone...

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Where we live can determine an awful lot about how we live. Moving may have its frustrations, but new places also offer moments of adventure and discovery. As we settle into our new homes, we have to remain mindful of...

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Let’s start by addressing the difficult part: no one wants to think about life insurance. As we strive to enjoy the time we’re given on this earth, it feels uncomfortable to spend any of it thinking about the end. But...

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3 Ways Mini Storage Insurance Can Protect You - It’s no secret – Americans are on the move. Houses and apartments are being snatched up left and right, especially in some regions of the country. Northern Alabama and...

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It’s been another great summer to be out on the water. As a boat owner, you’ve enjoyed every day you could get out there-- and the season’s not over yet. We still have a few more warm days ahead of us. But are you fully...

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That’s right - Pepper, Johnstone & Company has been serving clients in Alabama and throughout the Southeastern United States for 50 years. We’re proud of the relationships we’ve built in that time and humbled by the...

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Here at Pepper, Johnstone & Company, we are committed to our role as a local, independent insurance provider. Taking on this role means many things to us. Perhaps most importantly, it means building long-standing...

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Here at Pepper, Johnstone & Company, we cover our clients with risk-specific insurance designed for total protection. Today, we’re going to talk about protecting your religious institution through specialty...

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As life draws on, you consider the legacy you will leave behind. But it’s also important not to look too far ahead. Here at Pepper, Johnstone & Company, we take the time to remind our clients to take care of...

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As it is to almost everything related to the economy, trends are also significant for insurance. These trends, on a macro scale, ebb and flow with widespread risks, or the lack of risks. The expert advisers at Pepper,...

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As healthcare professionals, you hold patients’ welfare in mind practically without interruption. Unfortunately, patients and, particularly, their lawyers aren’t exactly forgiving when it comes to the liabilities...

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Farmers are being recognized as heroes in 2020 for having kept us fed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s a quick look at how farmers and ranchers fared during these trying times. Some farmers sweated, suffered; some...

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Pepper, Johnstone & Company today announces that Bryan Johnstone, President, has been appointed to the National Producer Council for Traveler’s Insurance, a prominent nationwide business, personal, and specialty...

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“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” -- Winston Churchill Many businesses exploit community involvement as a means to an end. A way to get new referrals and clients. A way to get free...

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Business owners looking for insurance want more than an agent. They want a trusted insurance advisor who will listen to their needs and look out for their best interests. We know you have a business to run: sales and...

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So, you’re shopping insurance rates. Maybe you’re a homeowner who just refinanced your home. You’re excited about your savings. You’re on a roll and want to see if you can lower your home insurance too. Perhaps you’ve...

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Imagine embarking on that home remodeling project you and your spouse have been dreaming of for years. You’ve now got the money saved up to redo your kitchen, and the day finally comes where the workers show up. They...

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Let's say that one of our Limestone County summer tornadoes damages your business facility beyond repair. Or torrential rains flood your operation, ruining furniture and important equipment. Although we don’t often want...

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The world of startups is like the wild west of modern business. Countless small, young companies are competing to bring new services that help improve our society and the world at large. One of the toughest aspects of...

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The insurance industry has seen many changes over the years. New risks come and old risks fade, and in between, there’s much nuance pertaining to how it affects both the industry and consumers. We here at Pepper,...

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In an earlier blog post we talked about cyber liability insurance. Today, we here at Pepper, Johnstone & Company would like to revisit this topic. Amid the accelerating use of digital and remote technologies as more...

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Like most industries in 2020, technological advances are changing the landscape for independent insurance agencies like ours. From business development to IT to claims management, technology shapes our processes,...

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Founding a startup company takes creativity, strategy, leadership, and resources. Business owners of startup companies often desire to minimize initial costs, but one business aspect not to skip out on is commercial...

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How often are you planning business goals for your company’s growth? Moving your business forward takes intentionality, planning, and strategic tactics. Let 2020 be the year that your business reaches increased growth...

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When it comes to insurance trends to expect in 2020, technology is the main focus. With a rise in the use of artificial intelligence (AI), telematics, robotics, and mobile devices, technology has infiltrated our daily...

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According to the U.S. News & World Report, Huntsville is among the best places to live in America. For those of us who live here in the greater Huntsville area, this ranking is no surprise. Our thriving cities and...

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Have you ever experienced an illness or injury that kept you from working? For most, it’s challenging to be in a position of financial struggle when life throws a curveball. Even more, the inability to provide...

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Limestone County is known for being home to beautiful natural sites and state parks, strong traditions like our annual Storytelling Festival, and our thriving manufacturing, technology, and business industries. Business...

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The self-storage market is expected to reach a value of $49.24 billion by 2024, with an annual growth rate of 134%. The industry is expected to be incredibly lucrative, but it doesn’t come without risk. If you have...

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For those considering a move, Limestone County offers unique advantages for businesses. Offering incentives like favorable taxes, training in technology and manufacturing, as well as an ideal location amongst burgeoning...

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Alabama’s auto sector is expected to grow tremendously in the next decade with the introduction of Mazda Toyota Manufacturing USA to Limestone County. Slated to open in 2021 and provide over 4,000 jobs, the automotive...

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Growing a solid financial foundation as a young professional starts with having the proper tools. Whether you just moved to a new city or you are looking to buy your first home, there are a few proactive steps that you...

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We care about our clients’ individual needs and desires when it comes to insurance protection. With each client being different than the next, we spend an adequate amount of time understanding the problem and finding...

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As a business owner who chooses to rent rather than buy the space they operate in, you may be under the impression that any damages to the property would be covered by the owner’s insurance policy. That, however, is not...

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It’s not uncommon for our clients to develop a strong bond with us: we work hard to provide everyone who walks through our doors the necessary advice for their unique needs. At Pepper, Johnstone & Company, we stress...

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Common Renters Insurance Misconceptions - It's easy to assume that because you’re renting, you’re covered in the event of an emergency; sometimes, however, landlords or property managers are lax on coverage, and you may...

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Arguably, the metalworking industry employs some of the most skilled employees in the nation. Metalworkers don’t sit behind a desk and push paper; instead, they operate heavy equipment like press brakes, ironworkers,...

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Running a commercial ranch or farm requires comprehensive insurance solutions that differ from other industries. Whereas most businesses rely on straightforward commercial policies, oftentimes farmers or ranchers live...

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In today’s age, technology is a major part of our business operations: from conducting banking to running retail and e-commerce. As our reliance on technology grows, it’s becoming increasingly imperative that we’re...

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Your home is your family’s hub: it’s your sanctuary and the most valuable asset you own. Protecting your home (even if you’re renting) with a homeowners insurance policy keeps you safe in the event of a theft or natural...

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We see the news littered with headlines about major companies being sued for countless reasons and we assume only the majors players are liable for legal complications, but even small businesses --- including your mom-...

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Insurance. We all need it, but how can you make sure that you have the coverage that you need without overspending or underspending? We’re accustomed to making purchasing decisions based on price, but this can spell...

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Umbrella insurance is an apt name for this coverage that extends over and beyond other underlying policies to protect your business or home. You may believe that you have the coverage that you need, but umbrella...

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So, when you get ready to purchase an insurance policy for auto or home, who comes to mind? State Farm? Nationwide? Allstate? That’s what a lot of people would say. However, there’s a better, more effective, more...

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A ring from a loved one. A bracelet handed down through generations. A watch or necklace marking a special occasion. Every reason you treasure a piece of fine jewelry is a reason it should be insured. However, calling...

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You’ve heard all the talk about driverless cars - but unfortunately, we’re still years away from living in a world where you just tell your car where to go, kick back and relax with a book (or, more likely, your phone)....

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It’s easy to lower your insurance costs - especially if you have a great driving record, or don’t mind having higher deductibles. Who doesn’t want to pay less for car insurance? Billions of dollars are spent on ad...

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In today’s economy, everyone is pinching pennies. So why worry about umbrella coverage? Shouldn’t a home and auto policy leave you adequately covered? Unfortunately, we live in a world of lawsuits. Large damages can be...

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When the sun is out and the weather’s warm, people flock to the water — whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for...

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Freezing temperatures, gusts of wind, patches of ice – winter can be a horrible time to be on the road, especially if you’re on vacation and aren’t used to driving in winter conditions. And, it’s an even worse time to...

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Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That's why it's important to know how to prevent it, detect it, and protect yourself...

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Memorial Day might be the unofficial start of summer, but Independence Day is when the season truly kicks into high gear. July 4 is a holiday that has something for everyone, whether you like to host (or attend)...

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Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and, as the weather gets warmer here in Athens, Alabama, and the days grow longer, there's a positive energy in the air. Many people decide it's the perfect time for reorganizing and...

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As a nation, our pets are like family, so let's make sure they enjoy the holidays with us while staying safe. As a general rule of thumb, always keep pets on a regular routine, even during the holiday season. Don't let...

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If you're like most people, there are certain items you own that you can't imagine ever losing - possessions you deeply cherish or those that would be impossible to replace due to the cost of re-purchasing them or...

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Fall is a wonderful time to be outside on your bike, thanks to the crisp, cool weather and changing colors of the landscape. Staying safe on the road in autumn requires some special precautions, however. Because we at...

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You've probably heard this horror story before - someone loses a home due to a flood and learns after the fact that standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage. At Pepper, Johnstone & Co. we want you to...

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It's an exciting time when your child heads off to college. Whether they're attending school in Alabama or have moved all the way across the country, there were a ton of things to get done last month, but did you...

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You don't have to be directly hit by a tornado in Alabama to experience damage. Taking some time to prepare could save you thousands of dollars and hours of clean-up. Know What Your Insurance Covers and How Much You...

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As many commercial building owners and contractors across Alabama begin remodeling or construction projects, they realize the value in subbing out some of the work to skilled and technical professionals. But there are...

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Risk Management - WHAT IS RISK MANAGEMENT? - Most entrepreneurs are risk takers, willing to invest resources with an expectation and hope, but no guarantee, of reward. But, from the viewpoint of insurance, "risk" is...

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RECOGNIZING WHEN TO HAVE A REVIEW Routine reviews every year or two are important to: Evaluate policy performance in the current economy Review industry trends Uncover subtle changes that may otherwise go unnoticed...

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NEW YORK, October 25, 2010 - With nearly one in 10 Americans out of work, and others forced to make ends meet with less money, many people are looking for ways to cut costs. There are smart ways to save on home and auto...

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Insurers often combine a number of insurance coverages into a package that is sold as a single contract. The most common policy for small businesses is the Businessowners Policy (BOP). The BOP combines coverage for all...

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