No need for Brexit stockpiling, retailers reassure consumers

Over the weekend, as an initial Sunday deadline for negotiations between the UK and EU loomed, government ministers reportedly told grocers to build up supplies of food and other essentials in case no deal was struck.

The reports prompted anger among some retailers, who feared they might spark a wave of panic buying.

Trade body the British Retail Consortium (BRC) reassured shoppers that there would be sufficient supply of essential items.

BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “Retailers are doing everything they can to prepare for all eventualities on January 1 – increasing the stock of tins, toilet rolls and other longer-life products so there will be sufficient supply of essential products. 

“They have also been building new customs and VAT processes, working with suppliers to ease logistics and more. While no amount of preparation by retailers can entirely prevent disruption, there is no need for the public to buy more food than usual as the main impact will be on imported fresh produce, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, which cannot be stored for long periods by either retailers or consumers.”

Dickinson called for clarity on Brexit to enable retailers to prepare as effectively as possible. She said: “Without a deal, the British public will face over £3bn in food tariffs and retailers would have no choice but to pass on some of these additional costs to their customers, who would see higher prices filter though during 2021.

“Moreover, new checks and red tape that will apply from January will create an additional burden for retailers and their customers.

“For the sake of customers and businesses around the UK, we need a deal in the next three weeks.”