DP Seals Brexit Plans
Planning for the worst and hoping for the best
In uncertain times one thing is clear, early and regular communication is vital to planning, preparation and navigating the inevitable twists and turns. Brexit has provided us all with plenty of uncertainty and so, for some time, we have been in discussions with customers and suppliers to consider how to manage the potential impact.
As we fast approach the 29th March, this article, which outlines the content of these discussions and our own planning, is shared to keep you updated with our approach and thinking.
Supply & logistics
Many of our customers have already chosen to order in advance and factor in greater delivery time. To facilitate this and manage supply risks in 2019 we have been pre-ordering and advance scheduling rubber materials and have also been bulk buying steel material to store on site. If you haven’t spoken with us already we urge you to get in touch and plan as far in advance as possible.
Pricing
We are seeing significant rises across markets for all thermoset rubbers, particularly silicone, as demand outstrips supply. However this is not being driven by Brexit and, as outlined above, we have managed risk to supply throughout 2019 by bulk ordering.
Employee recruitment and retention
We are not expecting any significant changes to recruitment. Many of our people have served us for years and we work hard to retain their services.
Finance & investment
As a financially strong business operating for over 40 years we continue to invest and are currently building two new manufacturing units in line with our expectations for organic growth.
Trade & markets
Our specialist, custom offering for a diverse range of industries across the Globe will help us minimise risk to trade.
Compliance, legal & regulatory
Our certification with a range of International standards including AS9100, ISO14001 & ISO45001 will be unaffected by the outcome of Brexit. In respect to ROHS, REACH and other EU Directives, we are in exactly the same position as others and continue to monitor the situation closely.
In summary
Whatever the outcome post March 29th, uncertainties will remain. To this end we’re committed to keeping open lines of communication. If you have any feedback or questions on this update we’d be delighted to hear from you. As always please feel free to follow us on social media, pick up the phone or email.