Bottlenecks and stockpiles: UK firms in last Brexit stretch

British companies are ramping up preparations ahead of Brexit, spearheaded by the food and drink sectors stockpiling extra ingredients and bottles.

"Get ready for Brexit" is the UK government's slogan ahead of the nation's scheduled departure from the European Union on October 31.

Billboards up and down the country are carrying the message as part of a state-funded advertising campaign that also features leaflets, online information and a roadshow where businesses can further seek advice.

"We are preparing for the potential impact of the UK's departure from the European Union by building stocks of key ingredients and equipment that could be affected by disruption to the flow of goods into the UK," bakery chain Greggs said this week, addressing customer concerns that they could struggle to get hold of its famed sausage rolls.

The government's own forecasts show Britain potentially running out of food and vital medicine - and seeing riots on the streets in the event of a 'no-deal' Brexit.

The problems stem from decades of interdependence that saw goods and services to flow freely and without customs checks.

Businesses fear that even brief border inspections would plug up trade...