SCOTLAND’S Transport Minister is set to kick off a key event, likely to be the first major haulage and logistics industry gathering after the triggering of Article 50.

The sector will converge on Glasgow’s Hampden Park on 19 April, to discuss a broad range of obstacles and opportunities arising from the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union.

The ‘Brexit: Informing Scottish Business, Before and Beyond’ conference will feature key speakers from the industry and wider business, law enforcement and academics, with an opening slot from Humza Yousaf MSP, the Minister for Transport and the Islands.

Speaking ahead of the event, Transport Minister Humza Yousaf, said: “The Scottish Government is clear that freedom of movement of trade is essential, which ideally means tariff-free and uninhibited movement of goods from Scottish exporters to EU customers.

“Any increased administrative burdens that may arise as a result of Brexit may lead to delays and increased costs for both hauliers and exporting businesses.

“I want to work with the industry to ensure these risks continue to be identified to the UK Government, addressed and avoided.”

The event will be hosted by Distribution Industry Partnership Scotland (DIPS), an industry specific branch of the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC).

Included within each delegate pack will be a highly detailed 46 page guide on the best practice for supply chain security, a resource which is being launched as a result of a partnership with DIPS, Road Haulage Association, DHL, RSA Insurance, NaVCIS and Maple Fleet Service.

DIPS Transport Resilience Manager, Stewart Hurry, believes that in this age of uncertainty, it will be fascinating to hear from key decision makers as well as experts across various disciplines.

He said: “Never before has the transport industry faced such a significant change in its operating environment – a change that will affect everyone across the board and so we expect heightened interest given this year’s topic.

“We’re delighted to be able to offer delegates the opportunity to listen to a presentation from the Transport Minister – as well as an incredible selection of speakers addressing many issues facing logistics today.”

A key feature of the day will be the afternoon practical workshop activity, to highlight pre and post Brexit business preparation and hosted by Neil Amner, President of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Scottish Chamber of Commerce Economic Advisory Group.

Further speakers from Immigration and Border Agencies, as well as the lead sponsor British Standards Institute will add to the event, along with an interactive feature from the SBRC’s own team of ethical hacking consultants.

Based at Police Scotland and the SBRC, DIPS works with its members to protect their products and cargoes, by developing crime prevention measures, exchanging information on relevant security and regulatory issues, sharing best practice and circulating intelligence.

Members can get advice, guidance and practical assistance on all aspects of business crime prevention and receive regular crime alerts. DIPS members also work in partnership with the Scottish Government and the police to identify and target criminal activity affecting their businesses.

For more information on the SBRC and its services, visit www.sbrcentre.co.uk.

Tickets and exhibiting opportunities are now available to DIPS members as well as non-members. Please visit www.sbrcentre.co.uk for more information.