RSSL (Reading Scientific Services Ltd) has secured Authorised Economic Operator Customs Simplifications (AEOC) certification ahead of whatever Brexit presents the UK with, in terms of supply chain complexities.

AEOC certification demonstrates that RSSL adheres to HMRC and client procedures efficiently, significantly reducing the probability of delays being experienced at the UK Border. Other benefits of the certification include faster application processes for customs simplifications and authorisations, and reductions in, or waivers of, comprehensive guarantees.

“Our scientists work with 80% of the top 15 FMCG companies. Much of what we test in our laboratories is airfreighted, making the potential of delays a genuine concern to us”

Jacinta George, RSSL’s managing director, said: “Our scientists work with 80% of the top 15 FMCG companies. Much of what we test in our laboratories is airfreighted, making the potential of delays a genuine concern to us.  AEOC certification gives reassurance to our customers that their samples, which can include foodstuffs and even human tissue, are processed quickly through the airport, with no delays.  Certification then works in reverse, giving our clients the confidence that their samples will be safely and expediently returned to wherever in the world they are based.

“To assist in achieving AEOC, we commissioned the services of risk management consultancy, VARTAN.  With a first-rate reputation for securing certification for their clients, we knew we were in safe hands.  Internationally known as a mark of quality, our successful certification is a very public and tangible acknowledgement of the systems and processes we have in place.”

As well as providing analysis and testing for the food industry, the scientists at RSSL also help parent company Mondelez to develop chocolate, biscuit and confectionery products for brands including Cadbury, Oreo and Bassett’s.

Miles Vartan, founder of the Suffolk-based VARTAN consultancy, says: “The AEO process, from Gap analysis to final certification took RSSL and VARTAN, working together, six months. With a Brexit result ever-looming, both HMRC and Border Force are actively encouraging businesses involved in international trade to consider applying for AEOC.  Unfortunately, the number of UK companies achieving registration lags firmly behind other EU countries and HMRC is doing everything it can to assist companies looking to push through certification.”