Nuneaton-based international freight service company is to access support from the CWLEP Growth Hub to mitigate the impact of Brexit

Wednesday 13th of November 2019 08:33 AM

Sarah Pagan from the CWLEP Growth Hub with David Hooper, Director and Founder of Independent Freight Solutions (left) & James Ahearne, International Trade Hub Manager at Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

A Nuneaton-based international freight service company is to access valuable support from the CWLEP Growth Hub as it seeks to mitigate the impact of Brexit.

Independent Freight Solutions provides freight services to customers across the whole of the European Union (EU).

Like many involved in the logistics and transport services sector, the company is concerned about the time it is taking to resolve Brexit and how the UK’s departure from the EU might impact on operations.

Independent Freight Solutions has sought the advice of the CWLEP Growth Hub, which has a range of resources available and is currently holding Brexit events across Coventry and Warwickshire.

David Hooper, director and founder of Independent Freight Solutions, said: “As an international transport and logistics company, the vast majority of our operations occur within the European Union Customs Union.

“We are monitoring the situation very closely and are keen for the issues to be resolved as quickly as possible.

“We operate within a diverse supply chain and we rely on smaller freight forwarders. Any change to border and customs checks will likely impact on our operations as well so it is vital that companies across the board are kept informed and given guidance to prepare for Brexit.”

Independent Freight Solutions understands that its customers throughout the EU will have pressing concerns about its future operations once the Brexit issue is resolved.

The company has put together a Brexit Planning Checklist that provides information for EU-based importers and exporters – but it also is important that they have access to up-to-date information.

David said: “Through the Growth Hub we have taken advantage of a government grant and have trained some of our staff on customs processes.

“We are consulting with the Growth Hub while the terms of Brexit are being finalised and continue to seek their support and guidance as the UK gets to grips with the new trading arrangements.”

Craig Humphrey, managing director at CWLEP Growth Hub, said the transport and logistics sector is a key industry in Coventry and Warwickshire.

He said: “We understand that for businesses across the region, the lack of certainty at this stage is a fundamental concern but we want them to know that support is on offer.

“The CWLEP Growth Hub has a range of resources available, including technical notices and practical guides that provide information relating to potential outcomes.

“We are also on hand to speak to directly, either by phone or email, and are holding regular Brexit events across Coventry and Warwickshire which we encourage all businesses to attend.

“While Brexit continues to give local businesses cause for concern, we want them to know that the CWLEP Growth Hub is committed to supporting them during this challenging time.”

For more information about how the CWLEP Growth Hub can assist businesses in planning for Brexit, click here.