Freeports have captured the attention of businesses across the UK involved in international trade, as well as organisations across the private and public sector.
How do businesses really feel about Freeports? Are UK companies embracing the Freeports opportunity or are they reserving judgement? Do they feel the government is providing enough support? What needs to be done to make the most of Freeports?
Based on a large-scale survey of businesses across the UK and featuring contributions from major industry players, including representatives from Brittany Ferries, Wilton Universal Group, Connected Places Catapult; Lloyds Bank, City College Plymouth, British Ports Association and Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, our report answers those questions and more.
Download the report
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Our report findings came from an extensive survey of over 500 businesses assessed sentiment towards UK Freeports and was carried out following the Government’s announcement of the eight planned Freeports locations, at East Midlands Airport, Felixstowe and Harwich, Humber, Liverpool, Plymouth, Solent, Teesside and Thames.
Hover over the map to discover the eight planned Freeport locations.
Our report highlights a number of key trends, but most importantly emphasises that Freeports cannot drive success in isolation. Businesses are seeking guidance for a clear path forward, the sentiment is there but the government and regional leads need to create trust, accessibility and encourage buy-in at every level.
Are the government plans for Freeports clear and easy to understand?
0%
Yes
0%
No
0%
Mostly
Do you feel you understand the ways in which Freeports will impact a region and
businesses within Freeports and free zones?
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Yes
0%
No
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Mostly
“The potential of Freeports is huge, if everyone believes in the premise of the why they've been created and works together to create change, building momentum could lead to an exciting future and achieve the goals of the levelling up agenda, as well as allowing UK businesses to compete globally."
Peter Snaith, Partner and leading UK Freeports specialist at Womble Bond Dickinson
