Royal British Legion to stop selling merchandise in the EU due to Brexit red tape

The charity, which provides support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces, is said to have sent an email to supporters stating it will ‘need to cease sales to customers in countries in the EU’ for the foreseeable future until legislation surrounding Brexit is reviewed.

Paper poppies will still be sold in the EU.

According to the i newspaper, the Royal British Legion has said that it could not justify the expense, including customs charges, to send merchandise or Poppy Shop products overseas following Britain’s departure from the EU’s customs union on January 1.

Poppy jewellery, clothing and accessories are sold through the charity’s online Poppy Shop.

The i said it has seen a copy of the email sent to supporters.

A charity spokeswoman said: ‘The RBL’s distribution of paper poppies to the EU is not affected as a result of the UK leaving the European Union. Goods sold by our online Poppy Shop to customers in the EU will be subject to the local rate of VAT and customs fees from 1st July. These costs are often higher than the value of the goods themselves and to pass them on to customers is not reasonable, therefore regrettably we are ceasing sales to customers in countries in the EU until such time as that legislation is reviewed.’

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A Government spokeswoman told PA: ‘We are focused on supporting UK organisations as they adjust to our new trading relationship with the EU.

‘The work of The Royal British Legion and the money they raise through their annual poppy appeal is incredibly important and we will engage with them to ensure they get the support they need to operate in the EU.’

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