Now that the Prime Minister has triggered Article 50 we are officially on the way out of the European Union.
Just how Brexit will impact the logistics sector is yet to be seen however as with all change there will always be opportunity. As WSTA members, Johnston Logistics UK (JLUK) supports their pledge to “stand together” with European colleagues to keep the trade in wine and spirits flowing freely as the government starts negotiating on the terms of the UK’s exit from the EU.
Rob McIndoe, Finance Director at Johnston Logistics UK commented ”As a provider of excise bonded warehousing, we support both the import and export drinks industry within the UK”. He went on to explain “It will be important for our clients to be able to continue trading freely in wines and spirits with the EU in the future. As a Norfolk business we also wholeheartedly support our local Chamber of Commerce in their call for five main areas to be included as part of the Brexit negotiations”.
Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber has outlined five areas that Norfolk Chamber members want to see included:
Business Voice – Businesses must have an input into negotiations and be able to comment on the impact of decisions proposed by the government.
Labour – From EU workers needing to have the right to stay in the UK to a simple system for seasonal workers and key staff.
International Trade – Trade agreements need to be agreed as quickly as possible and kept as simple as possible, with any tariffs kept to a minimum.
Standards – For local Norfolk products to remain competitive, product standards need to be aligned and recognised by the EU.
Funding – Levels of funding for business and people development need to be maintained in Norfolk.
Rob concluded “A time for opportunity and growth lies ahead but UK businesses must work together to ensure our concerns are heard by those negotiating the terms of our exit from the EU. We will give our total support to the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and their work to ensure Norfolk’s business voice is heard over the coming months and years”.
Johnston Logistics UK will continue to supply a quality service for food, manufacturing, alcohol, retail and other sectors to support the import and export industry. With ongoing communication between businesses and industry associations there will be opportunities to secure deals and develop this sector.
If you would like some more information on what services JLUK can provide your business please call a member of our team on 01953 381888.
