An EU team has been set up to help Cumbrian businesses as the end of the transition period approaches.
It comes to an end on December 31, which means the UK will leave the EU customs union and single market.
Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership has set up the team because businesses will be faced with new challenges.
It has appointed four business advisors who will be responsible for sourcing Government guidance and providing appropriate advice and information to enable businesses to prepare for new trading relationships post December 31.
Jo Lappin, chief executive of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “As the UK moves to enter a new trading relationship with the EU and the wider world, the Government is encouraging businesses to make sure that they are ready for the changes ahead.
“There will be new rules for many businesses, which will affect different aspects of their operations, from January.
“I’m therefore pleased that we have been invited to deliver a contract, on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, to support our businesses to manage the end of the transition period.
“It’s really important that our businesses do make the necessary preparations, over the coming weeks, so that they are ready for 1 January 2021.
“We will work with local businesses to ensure that they are able to access the advice they need. We are able to offer free support and advice on all aspects of EU transition.”
The partnership can now offer guidance and advice include:
- Changes to import/export tariffs (EU and non EU)
- Business travel
- Customs procedures
- Product standards
- Employment and recognition of qualifications
- Delivery of services
- Logistics
- Data protection
Mrs Lappin added: “Our advisors have held senior roles in blue chip companies, run their own businesses and been active in many aspects of international business.
“Their experience covers successful periods in business development, R&D, marketing, manufacturing, supply and distribution perspective.
“They will provide businesses with advice to help them improve their management and operations, as well as providing a strong focus on financial management.
“Their roles will be to reach out to Cumbrian businesses through direct contact, via a promotion of service campaign, and through referrals from other third party partners, such as the Confederation of British Industry to offer valuable support.”
