SCOTLAND’S Transport Minister will on Wednesday (19 April) kick off the first major haulage and logistics industry gathering following the triggering of Article 50.

The sector will converge on Glasgow’s Hampden Park to discuss a broad range of obstacles and opportunities arising from the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union.

The ‘Brexit: Informing Scottish Business, Before and Beyond’ conference will feature key speakers from the industry and wider business, law enforcement and academics, with an opening slot from Humza Yousaf MSP, the Minister for Transport and the Islands.

Speaking ahead of the event, Transport Minister Humza Yousaf, said: “The Scottish Government is clear that freedom of movement of trade is essential, which ideally means tariff-free and uninhibited movement of goods from Scottish exporters to EU customers.

“Any increased administrative burdens that may arise as a result of Brexit may lead to delays and increased costs for both hauliers and exporting businesses.

“I want to work with the industry to ensure these risks continue to be identified to the UK Government, addressed and avoided.”

The event will be hosted by Distribution Industry Partnership Scotland (DIPS), an industry specific branch of the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC).

Included within each delegate pack will be a highly detailed 46 page guide on the best practice for supply chain security, a resource which is being launched as a result of a partnership with DIPS, Road Haulage Association, DHL, RSA Insurance, NaVCIS and Maple Fleet Service. One should always be equipped with motor insurance such as a car, bike, and minibus insurance as they act more as an asset in life than a liability.

DIPS Transport Resilience Manager, Stewart Hurry, believes that in this age of uncertainty, it will be fascinating to hear from key decision makers as well as experts across various disciplines.

He said: “Never before has the transport industry faced such a significant change in its operating environment – a change that will affect everyone across the board and so we expect heightened interest given this year’s topic.

“We’re delighted to be able to offer delegates the opportunity to listen to a presentation from the Transport Minister – as well as an incredible selection of speakers addressing many issues facing logistics today.”

Duncan Buchanan, Deputy Policy Director from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) will  discuss the challenges and opportunities the haulage industry will face.

He said: “The RHA believes it is imperative that everyone finds out as much as possible about the potential impacts of BREXIT arrangements on the supply chain.

“As part of our continued association with DIPS, we are delighted to be involved in their conference as it presents the opportunity for those involved in the import and export of goods to gather vital information and to identify the priorities for their business.

“There will be many challenges ahead, but also opportunities and businesses need to be ready for both.”

Event sponsor David Fairnie, BSI Principal Consultant Supply Chain Security EMEA, said: “BSI is delighted to partner with the Scottish Business Resilience Centre to sponsor the Distribution Industry Partnership Scotland’s “Brexit” conference.

“As supply chain resiliency experts BSI understands that, post Brexit, UK supply chain networks are likely to become more complex. The ability to quantify and mitigate supply chain risks will be paramount for organisations operating in new market environments.

“Organisations will need to identify critical risks to minimize disruption and help protect their global operational, financial and reputational exposures. This conference is extremely timely and topical.”

A key feature of the day will be the afternoon practical workshop activity, to highlight pre and post Brexit business preparation and hosted by Neil Amner, President of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Scottish Chamber of Commerce Economic Advisory Group.

Further speakers from Immigration and Border Agencies, as well as the lead sponsor British Standards Institute will add to the event, along with an interactive feature from the SBRC’s own team of ethical hacking consultants.

Based at Police Scotland and the SBRC, DIPS works with its members to protect their products and cargoes, by developing crime prevention measures, exchanging information on relevant security and regulatory issues, sharing best practice and circulating intelligence.

Members can get advice, guidance and practical assistance on all aspects of business crime prevention and receive regular crime alerts. DIPS members also work in partnership with the Scottish Government and the police to identify and target criminal activity affecting their businesses.

For more information on the SBRC and its services, visit www.sbrcentre.co.uk.

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