Like many other UK Food businesses post Brexit, Pecan Deluxe Candy Europe was suddenly faced with numerous challenges exporting to its many European customers and this had the potential to damage previously good business relationships. Unlike some companies who found the going too tough, Pecan Deluxe rose to the challenge and persisted in its efforts to make the buying process as smooth as possible for all involved.
The company worked hard to be able to offer DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) as a buying option because it’s the easiest route for customers who just want to take delivery of products without any involvement with customs, Duty/VAT etc. The ability to sell with DDP means smoother logistics, customs clearance and inspections, and reduced supply chain costs, which all assist with keeping prices down.
The decision was made to use Calais as the single point of entry to the EU, enabling vet inspection and clearance to be streamlined at one place. In addition, the whole procedure is now managed by a single import broker resulting in a much faster, more efficient shipping process. After entry, the goods are free to circulate within the EU without any requirement to deal with customs officials at multiple border points. The haulier can drive directly to the customer without the need to divert to discharge a T1 Transit document.
“Aside from streamlined delivery times, our DDP customers now have minimal involvement in the delivery element of their transaction,” Pecan Deluxe Managing Director Graham Kingston said. “Essentially, from a customer perspective, the process that was previously fraught with complexity is now hassle free.”
Pecan Deluxe made the decision to reformulate a large proportion of its best-selling products so it can offer customers an equivalent plant-based version which does not require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) and vet inspection. Brownie, cake, cookie and cookie dough pieces are now all available without the ‘composite food’ classification that can bring additional hassle for European customers purchasing from UK suppliers – and they taste just as good!
In a further drive to reduce lead times and improve customer service Pecan Deluxe has invested in a new bakery area which will be fully operational by the start of 2023. The new bakery unit effectively doubles the company’s production capacity and customers will reap the benefits of reduced production times as a result. In addition, as part of a continuing project to improve output for fudge and caramels, Pecan Deluxe has achieved a significant increase in production yields by adjusting the manufacturing process. The resulting fudge, toffee and caramels are made with the same recipes and to the same delicious high quality as before – only faster.
