The findbusinesssupport.gov.scot website is the best way to find the information you need in relation to Coronavirus (24/7).
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for on the site above, call the business helpline number on 0300 303 0660.
Click here to visit the information hub
One of the unforeseen consequences of lockdown has been the impact of the suspension of food waste collections by many local authorities. This has led to a shortage of feedstock for some AD facilities. AD plants need to be ‘fed’ regularly and if they run out of feedstock it can take several months for them to get back up and running.
If any producers have stock which is going to waste, diversion to AD could be an option. Using waste or surplus food to produce energy is better for the environment than disposal by spreading on the land or sending to landfill. Beer, potatoes and milk are all useful materials for anaerobic digestion. AD operators require a certain balance of feedstock to ensure plants are operating effectively so it is best to check with them first whether material you have is suitable.
For more information contact:
Simon McKeating simon.mckeating@zerowastescotland.org.uk
Alison McKinnie alison.mckinnie@zerowastescotland.org.uk
Or find your local AD plant directly here.
The UK government has launched a new service to help you find UK-wide coronavirus financial support for your business. Some support available only to businesses in Scotland is not included. This is a short questionnaire on your business to then direct you to eligible business support. Further details here.
The government will temporarily relax elements of UK competition law to support the dairy industry through the coronavirus outbreak.
The intention is that the industry will work together to address current market challenges, avoiding waste and maintaining productive capacity to meet future demand. With the UK’s dairy farmers producing over 40 million litres of milk every day, the legislation, which will be laid shortly, will allow the industry to adapt to changes in the supply chain including decreased demand from the hospitality sector and reduced collection by retailers who have had to close.
For more information click here.
Changes announced today will help businesses avoid being struck off the Companies House register as they deal with the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
Click here for more information.
A joint initiative between the government and Companies House will allow businesses to apply for a three-month extension for filing their accounts, allowing them to prioritise managing the impact of coronavirus.
As part of the agreed measures, while companies will still have to apply for the 3-month extension to be granted, those citing issues around COVID-19 will be automatically and immediately granted an extension. Applications can be made through a fast-tracked online system which will take just 15 minutes to complete.
Guidance on how to apply for an extension can be found on gov.uk.
The French Authorities have put a new temporary requirement in place for anyone travelling or moving goods to France.
As the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has led to more remote working for both Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) staff and exporters alike, this is affecting the ability to manage export licence applications and supporting documentation. New interim measures are now in place to help manage license applications during Coronavirus. Click here for information on the new interim arrangements.
FAQs specific for distillers and brewers on Coronavirus can be found here.
VisitScotland has set-up an advice page which can be accessed here.
VisitScotland has released the second wave of their survey that is tracking the effects of Coronavirus on the industry. As well as gaining insight into the overall impact on Scottish tourism, it is also generates understanding across different regions and business sectors, including food and drink activities. The survey results can be found here.