South Norfolk businesses hopeful of deal as Brexit talks continue

Major businesses in the Diss Express area have warned of price increases if a trade deal is not reached in the ongoing Brexit negotiations.

With Brussels and Whitehall stuck at loggerheads, businesses have said they are hopeful a deal is reached before the UK’s official exit from the European Union on January 1.

James Langan, managing director of Natures Menu, a Snetterton-based pet food manufacturer, said: “A no-deal will mean an increase in costs and added complexity to our business, particularly in relation to importing and exporting our products to the EU.”

Mark Lowe, managing director of Diss-based AV distributor Midwich, said that, in the event of no-deal, products sold in the UK would come with a tariff, but gave an assurance that this would not have an impact on pricing. However, costs on exports may increase, he added.

“In the absence of a deal, some products that we sell in the UK would attract a tariff as these often come via assembly plants or hubs in mainland Europe,” he said.

“For most of our technologies, these tariffs are relatively low and won’t have a significant impact on pricing or demand.

“Of course, there would be implications on shipping across the border – it is likely that there would be extra administration, such as completing customs declarations, but we are well-prepared for this.”

Both firms said they are hopeful for a deal, with Mr Langan urging the Government for greater clarity.

He said: “We’re hopeful a trade deal will be reached. With little time remaining, we call for clarity from the Government as soon as possible on what will be required from businesses.”

With talks in their final stretch, MPs have been told that they could be recalled with 48 hours notice to sign off any deal.