“Brexit is among the main challenges of the thriving crafts sector”
Rosy Greenlees, Executive Director of the UK’s Crafts Council
Source: http://www.archipanic.com/rosy-greenlees-craft-council-brexit/
At the time of writing this blog post, the UK is still in a state of uncertainty as negotiations surrounding Brexit continue.
While no-one can predict the full impact of Brexit on business owners and the general population of the UK, we’ve pulled together a few resources that we thought would be useful in preparation.
Knowledge is Power
First up, as a craft business it’s important to make sure you’re fully informed about the possible impacts of Brexit.
The GOV website has a useful online guide, full of the latest advice and guidance on everything from the importing and exporting of goods, product compliance, contracts, funding, and using personal data.
There’s also specific advice for businesses who specialise in retail, food and drink, farming and consumer goods to name a few.
Do you import or export goods within Europe?
If you move objects in or out of the EU, you will need to take action.
If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, you’ll need an EORI number, that starts with GB, to move goods into and out of the UK. If you do not already have one, you can apply now, even if you do not use it.
This number is used by HMRC to identify your business and collect duty on your goods. If you don’t have a number you may have increased fees to pay and experience delays.
You will also need to make sure your contracts and international terms and conditions of service reflect that you are an importer/exporter.
If you sell goods within the EU, you may need to consider your delivery charges and speak to your courier to check what changes you might expect to the service you receive.
If you import goods from within the EU it’s wise to keep an eye on the prices of your materials and the impact that changes to exchange rates could have.
Are you part of an EU Funding Programme?
We know many of our crafts people benefit from funding programmes such as Creative Europe, Erasmus and Horizon 2020.
If you are successful in gaining funding from an EU programme before the end of 2020, the Government has pledged that you will receive funding over the lifeline of the project. If you’ve submitted a bid to one of the funds listed below you will need to register your project on the website.
Funds:
- Creative Europe
- Horizon 2020
- European Social Fund
- European Regional Development Funding
- Erasmus+
Further reading
The Arts Council have put together a comprehensive guide to help arts and cultural organisations prepare for leaving the EU. It’s regularly updated and a really good resource to be used alongside information from the government website.
Finally, remember that there’s no need to panic. All changes will be implemented slowly. There will be a transition period once Brexit happens, provided there is a deal in place, and all business owners will be in the same position.
Keep checking back to our blog where we will continue to share advice and make sure you keep checking the government website for official updates and information.
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