Chamber offers businesses the tools for Brexit success
A worrying number of North East manufacturers are not prepared for Brexit, says the region’s leading business organisation.
Now the North East England Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with Square One Law to produce a detailed Brexit Ready Tool Kit to support regional firms.
The information is a clear, step-by-step guide detailing what companies need to do in order to protect their business once the UK leaves the EU.
Neil Warwick, Head of EU and Competition Law, with Square One Law said: “We know that Brexit is very fluid at the minute and it is understandable that businesses are uncertain about what to do.
“However time is potentially running out and we would advise that it is essential that businesses have a contingency plan, even if they are not yet ready or willing to implement it.”
Chamber chief executive James Ramsbotham said the effect of leaving the EU should not be under-estimated: “What is very clear from our research is how far-reaching the impact of Brexit will be in our region.
“It will have impact on everyone from our international retailers who will have to cope with major currency uncertainties for imports and exports and even our football clubs who may be affected by the Bosman law where players can get a free transfer towards the end of their contract.
“The likely new bureaucracy post-Brexit will be a very difficult minefield for many businesses who have enjoyed frictionless trade with the EU.
“We hope this toolkit gives them the essential tips for successful exporting going forward.”
The Brexit Ready project covers four main areas of concern for businesses highlighted in the Chamber’s research - marketplaces, labour market, regulatory issues and access to finance in the absence of EU funding.
Mike Matthews MBE, Managing Director Nifco and Chamber past President said preparation and questioning was key to business success post-Brexit.
“Businesses hopeful of trade agreements have, in the past, been accused of clutching at straws,” he commented.
“But my answer to this, as I have said before, is that through our preparations, we are using those straws to build a good and solid raft.”