Members are invited to participate in Defra research and share feedback on how the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) is working in practice
Defra has commissioned Ecorys, an independent research organisation, to carry out interviews with key industry stakeholders.
Your frontline experience is invaluable to help Defra understand how BTOM processes and checks are operating day to day, and where improvements may be needed.
What we’re asking from you
All interviews will be audio recorded for accuracy, stored securely, and permanently deleted at the end of the project. A Privacy Notice is available.
Why your participation matters
Your insights will help Defra:
- Understand how BTOM is functioning on the ground
- Identify operational challenges and opportunities
- Inform the UK’s approach to future SPS agreements
- Provide robust, anonymous evidence grouped by stakeholder type
Interviews will explore topics such as:
- Impacts of BTOM’s biosecurity aims on your organisation
- Experiences with new border checks
- Operational challenges or improvements
- Business model or supply chain adaptations
- Whether changes (e.g., groupage practices) are likely to continue as SPS discussions evolve
We are particularly keen to hear from importers, exporters, hauliers, logistics providers, customs agents, Port Health Authorities, and trade associations.
Please reply by 20 February to confirm your participation or to provide an alternative contact to BTOMresearch@ecorys.com
Thank you in advance, your contribution is vital to ensuring BTOM reflects real-world needs.
The post Border Target Operating Model – Research Invite appeared first on British International Freight Association.
