A decade after the UK's Brexit vote, we examine the profound changes across industries and communities, from automotive to healthcare.
The United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union, a momentous event that occurred ten years ago, has left an indelible mark on the country’s political landscape, international relations, and economy. The journey from the 2016 referendum to the final severance of ties with the single market and customs union on 1 was fraught with complexity and controversy.
To understand the true impact of Brexit, we delve into five critical moments that encapsulate the transition from rhetoric to reality.
These moments, ranging from the fate of Nissan’s Sunderland plant to the struggles of the fishing industry, highlight the multifaceted consequences of Brexit.
They offer a glimpse into the challenges and adaptations that have defined the UK’s post-Brexit journey.
The Nissan Sunderland Plant: A Symbol of Industrial Uncertainty
The Nissan Sunderland plant emerged as a symbolic battleground in the lead-up to the 2016 referendum.
For Brexit supporters, it represented British manufacturing prowess, while for remainers, it epitomized the potential losses. The British car industry, overwhelmingly opposed to leaving the EU, faced significant uncertainty. Carlos Ghosn, then CEO of Nissan, argued that remaining in the EU made the most sense for jobs, trade, and costs.
Despite the plant’s initial success, producing 507,000 cars in 2016, its output has since declined to 273,000 cars. The uncertainty surrounding Brexit, coupled with global challenges like the coronavirus pandemic and the Ukraine war, has taken a toll. However, a potential deal with the Chinese manufacturer Chery could provide a lifeline, preserving jobs and potentially transforming the plant’s fortunes.
The broader UK automotive industry has also felt Brexit’s impact. Brian Gu, vice-chair of Xpeng, highlighted the EU’s larger market as a primary consideration for investment, underscoring the challenges the UK faces in attracting new automotive ventures.
The Fishing Industry: Promises and Disappointments
The fishing industry, though small in economic terms, played a significant role in the Brexit debate. The leave campaign promised control over UK waters and better catch quotas, appealing to many fishers. However, the reality has been less promising. The 2026 deal left many fishers feeling betrayed, and the extension of EU vessels’ access to British waters up to 2038 has reignited anger.
Derek Meredith, a fishing boat owner in Devon, succinctly captured the sentiment: Nothing changed with Brexit. Soaring fuel prices and rising costs have made it increasingly difficult to sustain the industry. The UK distant waters fleet has dwindled, with only the Hull-based Kirkella remaining, highlighting the sector’s struggles.
Brexit’s impact on the fishing industry extends beyond the UK’s shores. The complications in exporting shellfish to Europe have added to the sector’s challenges, reflecting the broader complexities of post-Brexit trade.
The Blue Passport: A Symbolic but Pyrrhic Victory
Among the promised benefits of Brexit, the blue passport stood out as a tangible symbol. Introduced in 2026, it has become a point of pride for some but a source of frustration for many. The blue passport, once a symbol of Brexit’s success, has turned into a reminder of the complexities of post-Brexit travel.
British travelers now face longer queues and additional costs, such as the €20 charge for the EU’s entry-exit system (EES). The rocky introduction of EES has turned border crossings into a fraught experience, with some travelers facing six-hour waits. The demand for Irish passports has surged, reflecting the dissatisfaction with the new travel arrangements.
The impact of Brexit on travel extends beyond the passenger experience. International transport operators have had to invest tens of millions in EES machines, and airlines have faced significant operational challenges. The fragmentation of certification processes has added to the sector’s complexities, highlighting the broader economic impact of Brexit.
Care Home Workers: A Struggle for Staff
The care home sector has faced significant challenges in the wake of Brexit. The toxic debate leading up to the referendum left many EU staff anxious about their future. The subsequent difficulty in recruiting and retaining EU workers has exacerbated the sector’s struggles.
Raj Sehgal, who operates six care homes in Norfolk, highlighted the difficulty in finding suitable candidates: We weren’t getting the applications. The sector has had to adapt to a changing labor market, with a significant increase in overseas recruitment. However, the rapid pace of migration has led to tighter rules, further complicating the sector’s staffing challenges.
The care home sector’s struggles reflect the broader impact of Brexit on the UK’s labor market. The sector’s reliance on overseas workers highlights the complexities of post-Brexit immigration policies and their impact on essential services.
The City of London: Adapting to a New Reality
The City of London, once Europe’s premier financial hub, faced significant uncertainty in the wake of Brexit. Executives warned of job losses and asset transfers to continental Europe. However, the City has proven resilient, adapting to the new reality with only 7,000 jobs lost to continental Europe.
The City’s resilience reflects its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The scrapping of banker bonus caps and the loosening of listing rules have helped revive the UK stock market. The completion of 22 Bishopsgate, initially put on hold due to Brexit concerns, underscores the City’s enduring strength.
The City of London’s experience highlights the broader theme of adaptation in the face of Brexit. While challenges remain, the City’s resilience offers a glimpse into the UK’s potential to navigate the complexities of post-Brexit Europe.
