Businesses in Uist have warned local communities will be hit in the pocket after a major haulier hiked its shipping charges by ‘around 120%’, reports STV.
It said that DFDS had announced it would increase costs in late 2024 due to financial challenges. See story here: Island businesses ‘struggling’ as shipping firm’s costs ‘soar by 120%’.
STV said island firms say the surge will have a ‘detrimental’ effect on the economy, with some businesses saying some fees have ‘trebled in cost’ while others say they have either been forced to mark-up retail prices or cease trading with some suppliers.
DFDS bought family-run firm DR Macleod in May 2023, which had served the islands for decades.
There are now calls for the Scottish Government to offer support.
STV said DFDS has been contacted for further comment.
