Lancaster and Morecambe business leaders launch new Brexit import and export help service

Delivered by Lancaster & District Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Lancaster City Council and Boost - Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub - the fully funded service is designed to offer a comprehensive information and advisory service to businesses involved in importing and exporting.

Vicky Lofthouse, Chief Executive of Lancaster & District Chamber of Commerce said: “With so little time to absorb the fine print produced at the eleventh hour many companies will have seen their preparations hampered by dealing with the immediate threat of the Coronavirus pandemic.

"There are many businesses who do not know where to turn to for help and are unsure of what exactly they need to do to be Brexit compliant.”

With this new free service, exporters and importers can expect to receive information, advice, workshops, training courses and one to one Brexit audits specific to each business.

The programme has been designed to give businesses the actual actions they need to take with a fully qualified expert including EORI requirements, customs rules and regulations, tariffs and duties, VAT procedure changes, and supply chain implications.

Coun Merv Evans, cabinet member with responsibility for Economic Recovery and Resilience at Lancaster City Council, said: “Following Brexit there are new rules and regulations for businesses trading with the EU and beyond and they can be difficult to navigate, particularly in light of the difficulties many continue to face due to Covid-19.

“We want to do all we can to make the transition as smooth as possible and help ensure they are able to continue trading effectively.

"This enhanced service, which is available to all businesses, will enable them to get access to a range of subjects, from customs arrangements, to legal and employment issues, and how to access new markets."

Andrew Leeming, programme manager at Boost, said: “Brexit will be a challenge for many companies; from managing and maintaining their EU customers and supply chain to developing new trading partners and exploring new opportunities.

"We’ll support them every step of the way and help them understand exactly what they need to do in order to avoid any disruption to their business.”

The service is being funded by Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and Lancaster City Council.

Businesses interested in receiving this service should in the first instance contact the Chamber team on 01524 381331 or by email at [email protected]

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