Potential delays in EU border checks could disrupt food deliveries before Christmas.
- Logistics UK cautions that a new fingerprint system at Dover might slow down goods movement.
- The new system mandates fingerprint and facial recognition checks for non-EU travellers.
- The Entry/Exit System (EES) could significantly increase processing and queue times.
- Consumers may bear additional costs due to potential delays and increased delivery expenses.
The introduction of a stringent fingerprint and facial recognition system at EU borders, particularly at Dover, is poised to interrupt the timely delivery of fresh food heading into the Christmas season. Logistics UK, a prominent trade organisation, has voiced concerns about the adverse impact this system could have on supply chains, specifically highlighting the potential for substantial disruptions.
The new Entry/Exit System (EES), which is set for implementation on 10 November, necessitates biometric checks for all non-EU travellers. This change could prolong the processing time for a single vehicle from under a minute to approximately seven minutes, as revealed by analyses from Imperial College London. The resultant longer queues and waiting periods are expected to reverberate through the supply chain, affecting the movement of goods.
Logistics UK has underscored the financial repercussions of these delays, estimating a cost of £1.30 per minute of delay, which could culminate in an excess of £1,100 per truck for delays extending to 14 hours. Such costs are likely to be transferred to consumers, thereby inflating prices during a critical purchasing period.
The impact of extended wait times is further compounded by the ‘food shoulder’ period, a time when the UK heavily relies on imported goods due to declining local production as winter approaches. During this period, uninterrupted logistics are crucial to ensuring market stability and availability of fresh produce.
In order to mitigate the looming challenges, Logistics UK recommends a comprehensive public awareness initiative to prepare travellers and transporters for the changes. Nichola Mallon, head of trade at Logistics UK, stressed the importance of this initiative in managing public expectations and providing clear guidance. She remarked, “If the EES is implemented as planned, I’m afraid we’re facing huge upheaval in the supply chain.”
As the UK prepares for these new regulations, proactive measures and strategic communication will be vital in minimising disruption and maintaining the smooth flow of goods.
