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There are many factors that continue to challenge our businesses as we move forward into this new year.
None are more important than the safety and wellbeing of our employees, customers and partners, especially as the global pandemic remains present.
We are also navigating our way through product supply changes brought on by both Brexit and increased input costs.
As a customer of BMG, we would like keep you fully informed of our progress on these three important issues.
Coronavirus
Now almost a month into our third coronavirus lockdown, we continue to ensure that the health and safety of our customers and staff is paramount as we operate on a business as usual basis with an 'essential service provider' status. Our protocols are constantly being assessed and reviewed, increasing our measures where necessary to ensure strict social distancing, regular cleaning and the compulsory use of face coverings at our site and delivery locations.
Our range of protective solutions are helping businesses to safeguard their customers and staff and continue working in a safe environment.
Brexit
Over the past two years, BMG suppliers have been preparing for Brexit-day, and now the deal is done, we can continue to buy European goods without tariffs, which is a relief we share with all businesses.
That said, it isn’t quite as easy as it was pre-Brexit. The UK has left the EU’s Single Market and the Customs Union so for trade to continue, border checks and customs declarations are now required. This is no surprise and we have been working closely with our suppliers over the past year to agree the most effective travel routes to deliver products to our customers, making sure our processes comply.
There have been much reported delays at UK/EU borders so we have been upgrading our warehousing capability and increased our stock inventory to protect orders over these next few months. Ports are having to adjust to social distancing, cleaning and the new documentation requirements that together may mean vessels take longer to unload, impacting the haulier’s ability to collect cargo from quay.
Whilst there are significant changes to the process for moving goods, these activities take place ‘behind the scenes’ between BMG, our suppliers and the Revenue & Customs authorities. We will endeavour to ensure these process changes run smoothly and that your products are delivered as usual.
Market outlook and input costs
Despite reduced market demand for paper and visual communications products driven by the current lockdown situation, our suppliers continue to push for price increases due to higher input costs. We are unfortunately also facing supplier increases on some of our packaging products too.
The markets in which we operate are uncertain, with many changing dynamics. We will continue to negotiate, and deflect, any price increases where possible, and only look to pass on substantiated increases to the market where unavoidable.
If you have any questions regarding any of this information or your orders, you can speak to us by calling 0131 346 1494.
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