The Netherlands-based producer and wholesaler Aquadip has denied false rumours that it will cease supplying the UK in the event of a hard exit from the EU.
Commercial director Joey Abrahams said: “Rumours have been circulating that we do not support Brexit and that we will even stop supplying the UK in the event of a hard exit from the EU. This is absolutely not the case.
“In fact, over the last few months, we have been working extremely hard to prepare our company for a worst-case scenario should the UK leave the EU without a deal. We have looked at all possible aspects, from licences to access to the IT systems at ferry terminals as well as the extra paperwork for customs clearance.”
Joey said the family business has invested heavily in the UK over the previous years and is prepared – and able – to trade from Aquadip UK Ltd to facilitate business operations in the UK.
He added: “As you can see, we remain firmly committed to our customers across the UK, and are determined to continue to provide our premium products and maintain the exceptional levels of customer service you are accustomed to.
“However, until we – and the rest of the UK – know what shape Brexit will take, it remains impossible to finalise plans. But rest assured we have taken whatever steps we can, and have invested extensively in preparations for whatever the outcome will be.
“Despite what some might say, we have not downscaled our production processes. The majority of our products are live and/or perishable, and require a certain amount of time for propagation and breeding. In the event of a hard Brexit, we are in fact predicting a period of growth as some other companies may not wish to take on the burden of the additional paperwork.
“Within this context, I cannot deny that there may be some initial teething problems, simply due to the nature of the market we trade in, but one thing is for sure – we will continue to supply the UK market and we absolutely respect the decision of the UK’s citizens.”
Aquadip will be exhibiting at AQUA 2019, at Telford International Centre, on October 16-17, and will showcase its range of aquatic food and plants, including its own-label aquarium and pond foods.
