Cargo delays

£3 billion of UK goods, including clothing, furniture and household appliances are at risk of being delayed should the current crisis in the Red Sea continue or escalate, according to Russell Group. Its analysis was based on goods imported into Felixstowe during June to September 2023, a key period for retailers which stock up on popular items to sell over the Christmas and Bank Holiday season. Russell has identified the following commodities would be at risk: preserved fruits and vegetables (£424 million); clothing (£403 million); pharmaceuticals (£376 million); and household appliances (£211 million).