Here at Caterforce, we have been working hard to minimise the impact of a potential no-deal Brexit on our members. If a deal has not been agreed by 31st December 2020 the UK will move to trade with the EU under World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules, resulting in increased tariffs and likely shortages of stock which could last months. Delays at UK and EU ports caused by additional paperwork are also expected. This will have the biggest impact on imports of fresh produce.
In preparation for this scenario Caterforce have provided all members with a WTO tariff calculator and we have calculated the potential increase in import tariffs on our contracted products.
Our team have identified the products most at risk of availability issues and have advised members to build contingency stocks. We have also reviewed our supply chain to minimise disruption as far as possible and have sourced alternative products from UK suppliers where necessary.
Our head office team have been working with Micron2 and FWD to ensure members are supported in adherence of changes in food regulations and we have provided ongoing advice on additional documentation that may be needed such as the UK Economic Operator Registration Identification number https://www.gov.uk/eori.
Caterforce are committed to supporting all our members throughout the transition and will continue to work to ensure we are all prepared for whatever the outcome may be.
For the latest news on Brexit and its impact on our sector please refer to the below websites:
https://www.fwd.co.uk/current-issues/brexit/
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/declaring-your-goods-at-customs-if-the-uk-leaves-the-eu-with-no-deal