Small Businesses Describe Brexit as 'A Total, Utter Nightmare'

The Ongoing Struggles of Small Businesses Post-Brexit

Small businesses in the UK are still reeling from the effects of Brexit, with many describing the experience as 'a total, utter nightmare'. The changes have led to significant challenges, including increased paperwork, loss of exports to the EU, and difficulties in recruiting seasonal workers.

The Impact on Exports

Between 16,000 to 20,000 businesses stopped exporting to the EU altogether. Those who continued to export faced significant hurdles, including the requirement for a £180 health certificate for every sale, even those worth just £30. This has led to a 37.4% fall in exports to the EU of farm products, from beef to cheese, over the five years since 2019.

The Struggle with Seasonal Workers

The end of free movement from the EU has made it difficult for farms to recruit seasonal workers. Alastair Brooks, owner of a berry farm in Kent, ceased trading and retired early due to the lack of preparation by the government and the civil service. He noted that the new seasonal workers' scheme was flawed, leading to staff shortages and increased risks for his business.

The Financial Burden

The cost of doing business in the UK since Brexit has increased significantly for some entrepreneurs. Daniel Lambert, a British-French dual national, saw his costs spiral from £30,000 to £166,000 a year. He eventually left the UK for France but continues his wine import/export business.

The Human Cost

The impact of Brexit has not only been financial but also personal. Simon Spurrell, a Cheshire cheesemaker, lost his business due to the increased paperwork and costs associated with exporting to the EU. He now works for a larger company that can cope with the new regulations.

The Future Outlook

As the UK continues to navigate the post-Brexit landscape, small businesses are calling for more support and a clearer vision for the future. The experiences of entrepreneurs like Spurrell, Brooks, and Lambert highlight the need for a more streamlined and supportive system to help small businesses thrive in a post-Brexit world.