Whether it be trade in chocolate bars, electric bicycles or malt whisky distilled in Scotland, the reality for exporters, importers and customers infuriated by orders being delayed is mostly negative.

“Three months on, two out of three companies experience a negative impact of Brexit. They are struggling with increased costs [71%], red tape [63%] and delayed shipments [59%],” said Lyne Biewinga, executive director of membership at the Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) which conducted the survey among its members. “These problems have led to sleepless nights for many businesses.”