Westhaven Worldwide Logistics

Our first event in our new location was a great success

57 business people enjoyed two excellent and informative presentations.

Firstly "Managing Global Risks" by David Knight and Kim Simoniti from HSBC Trade Services and secondly "Authorised Economic Operator" by Philip Bridgstock-Bates of Phillips Export Training / Quadrel.

Managing Global Risks

David and Kim took us on an entertaining and informative tour round the ins and outs of dealing in the emerging BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India & China)

Their insight into some of the pitfalls that can be avoided was invaluable. From errors in translation to cultural differences, a bit of careful planning and advice can avoid a lot of problems. The ancient wisdom of the Egyptians was even brought into it:

CHEOPS PYRAMIDIC LAW THE 1st PRINCIPLE
"Nothing ever gets built on time or within budget"

CHEOPS PYRAMIDIC LAW THE 2nd PRINCIPLE
"There is never enough time to do something properly, but apparently always enough time to do it again."

Some comments from attendees:

"Very useful points of view and advice"

"A wide range of useful examples"

Authorised Economic Operator

The presentation by Philip was also very informative, and generated a lot of interesting debate.

HMRC's plan to implement legislation to govern supply chain security, entitled AEO, is still in it's formulative stage, but could have a massive impact on businesses.

In it's simplest form it comprises of a set of procedures that businesses need to apply to minimise the risk of terrorist infiltration of the supply chain. It was noted that some of the proposals were much more far reaching, and is being dubbed by some as a 'terrorism tax.'

From 1 July 2007, UK Customs will be auditing businesses who apply for AEO status to verify whether or not the internal controls and global supply chain arrangements in the business are fully risk proved against terrorist and associated fraudulent activity.

The application process is tough and covers more than just compliance with customs rules

But there will be significant benefits for businesses who successfully achieve AEO status. Although AEO is not compulsory, many businesses may decide or discover - it is desirable or necessary to obtain authorised status.

Some comments from attendees:

"A difficult subject made more clear"

"Interesting presentation and stimulating debate"

Winner of the business card raffle, Clive Boast from the Manufacturing Foundation being presented with his Waterman pen by Kim Simoniti of HSBC