Richard recently visited Unisnacks which imports and distributes snack foods and beverages.
Richard Fuller MP said:
From 400sq ft to a 62,000sq ft global food hub, Unisnacks is a great local success story, built from the ground up by entrepreneur Hyder Haniffa.
They now supply 26 world‑food brands to major UK supermarkets and create long‑term careers for their team, so much so that several employees have moved with the company from Slough to Welwyn and Biggleswade.
I learnt a lot about the company on my visit and I also got to drive the forklift!
Not all is perfect in road haulage and distribution, however, and the team shared with me a number of frustrations that impact their business as well as driver safety, wellbeing and retention. There are far too few safe and well-equiped truck stops leading to drivers having to rest in their vehicles. Freight crime is also a major issue due to inadequate security at many parking stops. Road networks and conditions should be improved to avoid unneccessary delays and congestion which affects driver welfare as well as impacting operating costs. There is a skilled driver shortage and Unisnacks would like to see greater emphasis on career advice in schools, skills bootcamps and expansion of apprenticeship opportunities. Spiralling fuel costs and increases in taxation, including Corporation Tax and Vehicle Excise Duty, have placed significant pressures on the business.
Businesses like Unisnacks play a critical role in maintaining essential supply chains as well as providing invaluable employment opportunities spanning many disciplines. It's important that governments of all colours protect the viability of such businesses and provide the space for them to thrive and expand.
Many thanks to the whole Unisnacks team for the warm welcome and for the Road Haulage Association for helping to set up the visit.
