Most UK stores have stocked up on food supplies over concerns of supply disruptions and possible shortages due to the breakdown of the Brexit agreement, writes CNBC. At the same time, buyers are urged not to panic.
An order to stock up on non-perishable food has arrived in British supermarkets from the government. This was done against the background of warnings from market participants that the withdrawal from the European Union without the deal with Brussels will entail problems with the supply of goods, including food.
If the UK and EU authorities fail to agree on Brexit terms, London will leave the single European market from January 2021. This will entail the restoration of import duties on the import of European goods. Some are expected to rise substantially.
In addition, some retailers are stocking up on food and other goods in advance, which puts additional pressure on roads and transport companies, which are under increased pressure on the eve of Catholic Christmas and the growth of orders. At the same time, authorities and store owners urge citizens not to panic and make purchases as usual.
The British government has already announced that it is ready for Brexit without a deal with Brussels. However, on December 13, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the chapter European Commission Ursula von der Leyen noted that they are trying to” do everything possible “and instructed those responsible for negotiations to continue to seek a compromise.