Pall-Ex has said it is “saddened” by the UK’s decision to leave the European Union and reiterated its warning that the forthcoming Brexit will “deeply” affect the supply chain.

The pallet network’s founder Hilary Devey was a spokeswoman for the Stronger In campaign in the lead-up to yesterday’s referendum.

In a statement this morning, Pall-Ex MD Kevin Buchanan said: “As a business, we’ve always said that Britain is stronger in Europe. We’re saddened that the majority of people didn’t share our view.

“We stand firm in our belief that the UK’s supply chain will be deeply affected by the referendum outcome, as it’s always relied on an efficient international logistics network. Jobs, trade and investment are all likely to be impacted.”

The country will now enter a “crucial” period of negotiation, he said, and urged the government to listen to business’s concerns: “Like every other company, we must now take stock of what’s happened and ensure that processes are in place to lessen the inevitable impact.

“Our number one priority has always been, and remains, our haulier members and customers. Over the coming months, we’ll be doing all we can to support them and ensure that, as much as possible, it remains business as usual,” Buchanan added.