Businesses that rely on EU imports of food and drinks will have to endure additional Brexit redtape to maintain supplies. Many are even planning to increase their imports.
Many UK food and beverage businesses will continue to focus on European Union products like beer, wine and spirits, despite Brexit’s excessive red tape.
A new report by the More than Only Food & Drink Campaign claims that border checks and bureaucratic burdens imposed on businesses after Brexit won’t stop UK supply chain experts from importing.
Imports of EU foods and drinks to increase in the UK
A European Commission report revealed that the majority of wholesalers and importers as well as producers, and other professionals would increase their imports.
Professionals in wine, cheese and dairy were “100%” committed to buying more products from Europe this year.
Professionals in the beer (80%), meat and charcuterie (80%) and bakery (70%) industries remain optimistic that they will be able to increase their imports from the EU by 2025.
Some sectors like the fruit and vegetable sector, confectionery, were less certain about maintaining or increasing their imports. The two companies committed to buying additional lines in the EU for next year by 30%.
The respondents cited high quality (95%) as being the main reason for their choice to import specific EU stocks. They also cited pricing (81%) authenticity (78%), and sustainability (77%).
UK imports are dependent upon EU
Andrew Crumpton, founder of AMC Consulting and advisor, said: “These insights show that, despite challenges and complexity associated with new cross-border agreements, the EU is still a valuable partner and an important resource to the UK food and beverage industry, and it’s likely that will remain so.”
The UK was in need of fruits and vegetables that were complementary to its own farming patterns.
The report stated that “when certain crops are not in season in the UK EU producers will support this offer. This ensures UK retailers have a high-quality, consistent selection for consumers all year round.”
