Covid and Brexit – Two Enormous Challenges in 2020

Covid Update

Covid-19 set businesses a real test from the spring of last year. Brexit had been going on for years but was coming to a head. Astropol has tackled both and done its best to ‘control the uncontrollable’.

Although Covid-19 impacted the business during the first wave (April/May 2020) Astropol remained open and continued to produce bespoke colour masterbatches and additives. As manufacturing in the UK and abroad (particularly in the building markets) was allowed to continue, by strictly following government guidelines in the workplace, Astropol has been able to continue in full operation.

The Brexit arrangements with Europe removed major concerns about extra duties and tariffs. Now it is a question of managing the extra paperwork involved and allowing for potential challenges in material availability. Astropol has been proactive in this regard and stocks have been brought in early to maintain customer service levels. Also, the company’s established expertise and knowledge in the field of import-export means that it is well placed to pro-actively handle the additional administrative work that is required under these new circumstances.

We are working into 2021 with a positive approach, since Covid vaccinations give everyone some real hope for a return to whatever ‘normal’ will be!

Brexit Update

New roles are created as Astropol grows

New Roles

Even through tough lockdown periods, Astropol has continued to follow a course of positive development. Vinyl and Non-vinyl manufacturers have continued to need colour masterbatches and additives.

As a result, since late 2020 and into 2021 new roles have arisen within the organisation and Astropol has responded with the following appointments:

• An additional laboratory technician with quality assurance responsibilities.
• A compliance specialist to help with the journey towards LEAN processes.
• A technician to work on developments for bespoke new enquiries.
• An additional production planner to maintain the smooth workflow of orders.
• An experienced technical sales development specialist to convert new business opportunities.

These appointments reflect the progress the business is still able to make despite these challenging Covid times.

Please contact us on either 01942 254 006 or using our Contact Form here.