Logistics experts Europa Road says UK manufacturing exporters are adapting seamlessly to France’s new import tax requirements, with its customers moving smoothly onto its Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services from 1 January.
Allaway Acoustics is a prime example of a UK-based manufacturing exporter that would have been severely impacted by the new French legislative requirements. The leading manufacturer of acoustic solutions supplies materials for data centres across the EU, with solutions to control noise emissions from power generation and cooling equipment. A third of Allaway’s business is with European markets, including large projects in Germany, the Netherlands and France, so any delays could have a significant financial impact.
At the end of 2025, confusion around these new French regulations was rife and threatened to undermine British manufacturers' confidence in European trade.
Europa Road is the dedicated European road freight division of leading logistics provider, Europa Worldwide Group, one of the largest independent logistics operators in the UK.
Drawing on its experience with 100 in-house customs specialists working across the EU and UK, Europa expanded its DDP Flow services to offer a choice between ‘DDP Flow – Importer’s Signature’ and ‘DDP Flow – Own French VAT Number’. It’s early days, but to date the company reports equal numbers of its customers choosing each option, reflecting their differing operational and commercial needs.
Allaway considered both DDP Flow options and, with Europa’s support and guidance, opted for ‘DDP Flow – Own French VAT Number’. This option reduced the impact on Allaway’s customers, and, with Europa’s support, the company was able to secure a French VAT number in time to send its first shipments in the New Year.
From 1 January 2026, UK businesses exporting to the EU face new regulations at the French border under Regime 42, (the post-Brexit customs process that enables goods destined for another EU country to be VAT exempt).
Sam Giles, Head of Logistics at Allaway Acoustics, commented: “The news of Regime 42 was widespread, which made it all feel daunting. However, Europa supported us every step of the way, clearly outlining the options available and how this would all affect our customers. Europa supports our largest projects, which meant we really had to get this right. As we support fast paced and high-profile building projects in the EU with our bespoke acoustic solutions, timing is everything.”
Andrew Baxter, Chief Executive Officer at Europa Worldwide Group said “Early on there was a great deal of confusion in the market, including incorrect claims that British exporters would lose access to Regime 42. Our focus was to provide clarity and choice so customers could continue trading with confidence. Though some customers were more prepared than others, our branch teams across the county have worked hard to minimise any challenges they faced, ensuring we provide the fastest and best value for customers.”
“We’re pleased to be able to support major UK manufacturers, such as Allaway and help them navigate the best solution to keep goods flowing. The fact that exporters have adopted both solutions shows the importance of flexibility. What matters is that goods are continuing to move seamlessly across borders.”
Europa Worldwide Group comprises Europa Road, Europa Air & Sea and Europa Warehouse. It’s expert European road freight division has 15 dedicated branches across the UK and Ireland, as well as teams in the EU. It was the first company to create a DDP solution for customers post-Brexit and works closely with HMRC in the UK and its EU equivalents.