From Highland threads to high fashion: Stevens & Graham revives EU exports post-Brexit
14 October 20254 min read
Thanks to Europa, one leading supplier of tartan carpets is gaining new momentum across the EU, following the demise of its export capabilities. Stevens & Graham initially struggled to access the EU market in the wake of Brexit, but its European exports now account for almost half of its production, and it has recently gained new contract work in Paris after finding a solution with Europa.
As part of one of Britain’s largest independent logistics providers, Europa Worldwide Group, the Europa Road Glasgow team is supporting the firm, which is the biggest global supplier of tartan carpets and rugs.
Stevens & Graham specialise in traditional wool-woven styles and is globally renowned for high-profile commercial projects including hospitality, retail, leisure, TV and film. The business’s post-Brexit challenge meant all exports were halted until it could identify a logistics solution that enables the smooth flow of goods into the continent.
According to data from the Scottish Government, the EU is the country’s largest export destination, accounting for around 38 per cent of the total goods exports.
Elisa Elder, Glasgow Branch Manager, commented: “Stevens & Graham is renowned on a global scale, but initially struggled to access the EU market in the wake of Brexit. However, leveraging our Deliver Duty Paid (DDP) Europa Flow Service our team has helped transform the business’s exporting capabilities.
Currently, 56 per cent of Europa’s groupage exports are shipped using DDP incoterms, as the firm continues to establish itself as a market leader in European road logistics.
“Most recently, Stevens & Graham have supplied a leading designer fashion brand in Paris, furnishing three bespoke showrooms. Our expertise in high-value, time-sensitive consignments meant that our team was able to support this important project by meeting tight deadlines through our own vehicles and network of local hauliers.”
A representative from Stevens & Graham added, “I’ve been consistently impressed with the outstanding service from the Europa team. From the moment I reached out, they have always been very prompt with shipping quotations, which makes dealing with our clients so much easier. The level of customer service is exceptional. On top of all that, their delivery times are always fast and reliable. It’s rare to find a logistics supplier that combines such speed, efficiency, and great communication.” From Highland threads to high fashion: Stevens & Graham revives EU exports post-BrexitOffering hassle-free European Road freight services for every consignment size, in today’s post-Brexit landscape, Europa ensures efficient, cost-effective, and seamless movement of goods between Europe and the UK. Following Brexit, Europa Road has marked several innovative milestones, including its £5 million investment in Europa Flow in 2021, which now accounts for 50 per cent of all groupage transport leaving the UK.
Most recently, Europa has extended Flow to tackle the changes for businesses exporting to the European Union (EU) that will face new regulations at the border under Regime 42 (a post-Brexit customs process).
From the 1 January, DDP Flow – Importer’s Signature will provide a simplified option in which the receiver of goods in the EU signs an agreement, allowing Europa to act as an indirect representative to exempt VAT. All duties and charges remain billed back to the exporter, ensuring consignments move seamlessly across borders.
Alternatively, DDP Flow – Own French VAT Number will enable exporters to remain legally responsible for fulfilling customs requirements (known as Importer of Record) while Europa manages the administration for a French VAT number and associated reporting on its shipments free of charge.
The latest in a long line of innovations to improve bilateral trade post-Brexit, Europa’s services integrate seamlessly into HMRC and French Customs to ensure efficiency and control for British businesses.
Europa Worldwide Group is one of the largest independent logistics operators in the UK and has a customs presence at key EU points of entry and exit, being the largest customs broker in Calais. Europa controls both the transport and the clearance on behalf of its customers rather than relying on third-party support.
Adrian Redmile, Branch and Sales Director at Europa Worldwide Group, commented: “From the very beginning, it’s been our aspiration to build Europa into a company that is internationally recognised while providing a great local service for regional exporters.
“We recognise the importance of driving operations forward and contributing to the economy. Each of our expert local teams plays a pivotal role in our wider operation, ensuring each customer receives an exceptional service.”
