Why UK companies must engage with EU policymakers post-Brexit

As the new European Commission takes office on 1st December, marking the first beginning of a new College of Commissioners in the post-Brexit era, we take a look at the five key things UK companies with operations in the EU, or plans to expand into the EU, need to effectively engage with EU policymakers and to advocate for their interests.

Post-Brexit, the EU remains a critical partner for UK businesses. With its 27 EU Member States and a consumer market of over 440 million people, the EU's regulatory decisions significantly impact UK companies trading with or operating within its borders. Here’s the five key steps how UK businesses can step up their engagement with EU decisionmakers as the 2024-2029 EU policymaking cycle gathers pace.

?One - understand EU decision-making structures

To effectively engage, UK companies need to grasp how the EU operates. The European Commission proposes laws, the European Parliament amends and votes on them, and the Council of the EU negotiates on behalf of Member States. Each institution plays a specific role, and understanding who drives decisions at different stages is critical.

Even outside of the EU, UK businesses can contribute to EU public consultations, whether they be from the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) or the European Banking Authority (EBA) to name only a few. UK companies can also participate in stakeholder meetings and track legislative developments. For example, regulations on sustainability, digital markets and supply chain due diligence have wide-reaching effects on UK industries. By engaging early businesses can align operations with upcoming requirements, and even shape their evolution.

Ignoring the EU’s regulatory environment risks leaving UK companies at a disadvantage, facing compliance hurdles and limited market access. A clear EU public affairs strategy ensures both structure and effective engagement with policymakers, laying the groundwork for business growth and expansion in the world’s largest single market.

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Two - develop a clear and credible message

EU policymakers are more likely to consider input from stakeholders who present well-researched, compelling arguments. For UK companies, this means crafting a evidence-backed position that highlights the broader benefits of their proposals – not just to their business but to the EU market as a whole.

For instance, if a UK technology firm wants to influence AI regulations, it should focus on showing how its innovations support EU goals such as enhancing digital sovereignty or addressing ethical concerns. The message must be concise, credible and tailored to resonate with key priorities such as sustainability, competitiveness or innovation.

By clearly articulating their position, UK companies can stand out among competing voices. This proactive approach not only improves the chances of being heard by policymakers but also demonstrates a commitment to contributing positively to the EU ecosystem.

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Three - establish an EU presence or partner with experts

Having a Brussels presence or working with experienced EU lobbyists gives UK companies access to invaluable networks and insider knowledge. Post-Brexit, UK entities are no longer directly represented in EU institutions, making external partnerships even more essential.

A physical office in Brussels signals commitment, while collaborating with EU-focused consultancies or trade associations ensures expertise in navigating the complexities of policymaking. These experts can provide insights into legislative timelines, identify key decisionmakers and arrange meetings to amplify the voice of UK companies.

An EU presence also fosters long-term relationships with policymakers, enhancing trust and credibility. This is especially important for companies aiming to influence decisions on emerging requirements such as the incoming Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

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Four - build alliances and coalitions

In the EU, collective action often carries more weight than individual lobbying efforts. UK companies should seek partnerships with European counterparts and industry associations, as well as forming cross-border coalitions to present united positions on shared interests.

Coalitions provide additional legitimacy to lobbying efforts, showing policymakers that the concerns are broad and not isolated. For instance, a UK company in the automotive sector might align with EU manufacturers to advocate for fair electric vehicle standards, ensuring a level playing field across the market.

By working together, businesses can pool resources, share intelligence and increase their visibility within the EU policymaking landscape.

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Five - engage in early policy formation

The EU policymaking process often begins years before a regulation is finalised. Public consultations, expert working groups and stakeholder dialogues provide opportunities for input during these early stages, when proposals are still malleable.

For UK companies, this is the ideal time to shape policy direction. Waiting until later in the process risks encountering rigid legislation that’s harder to amend. Engaging early allows businesses to highlight concerns, propose solutions and align regulations with their operational realities.

Active participation demonstrates a company’s willingness to collaborate constructively, fostering goodwill with regulators. Whether it’s contributing to climate goals or ensuring supply chain transparency, UK businesses can remain relevant and influential by being part of the conversation from the beginning.

Post-Brexit, UK companies can no longer rely on government representation within the EU, increasing the importance of engaging directly. By understanding EU decision-making, crafting strong messages, establishing an EU presence, forming alliances and participating early, businesses can continue to influence the policies that shape their operations. Engagement isn’t just advisable – it’s essential for sustaining competitiveness in the interconnected global economy.

The Whitehouse team are expert political consultants providing public affairs advice and political analysis to a wide range of organisations, not only in the UK, but also across the EU Member States and beyond.?

As we approach the year’s end and start to look ahead to 2025, Whitehouse is launching a new EU public affairs training service for UK companies, specifically tailored to your needs. To express interest in receiving this bespoke training please register you interest here, and we’ll get in touch with you.

Additionally, if you are interested in having us craft a bespoke EU public affairs strategy for you, please feel free to reach out to the Director of our EU practice, Laura Contin, at: [email protected]