It may not be the first thing that springs to mind amid the many implications of Brexit, but one company is cashing in on a rising demand for heat-treated timber pallets.

While negotiations continue in a bid to secure a deal before the transition period ends on January 1, firms are having to prepare for some key changes in regulations.

And for Britain's Bravest Manufacturing Company (BBMC) - the social enterprise arm of the Royal British Legion Industries based in Aylesford - its meant demand for some of its products have soared.

Explains Kate Bull, managing director of BBMC: "In the absence of the final detail of the trade deal between the UK and EU, exporting businesses have recognised they need to plan for all eventualities.

“It is still possible that from January 1, the UK will have 'third country' status. This would mean all pallets entering the EU would need to be heat treated in order to comply with International Standard for Phytosanitary measures no.15 (ISPM15), adopted by the EU.

“While we must hope that a pragmatic approach to the use of non-heat treated pallets is adopted, we must be practical and realistic about the risks. In theory, inspection regimes could be introduced at UK-EU borders. At best this could slow the movement of goods, and in the worst-case scenario could result in entry being refused, which would be hugely damaging for British firms and their relations with their European customers.”

The result has been sales of such EU-approved pallets have risen from 6,000 to 12,000 a month since October; accounting for 40% of all pallets made by the company.

In the worst-case scenario this could result in entry being refused, which would be hugely damaging for British firms

The social enterprise employs 110 people of whom 70% are military veterans or disabled, with all profits made by the company reinvested in its growth or RBLI’s training, care and accommodation for former military personnel.

Head to our business page for all of the latest news about businesses in Kent

How is Brexit going to affect Kent? For all the latest news, views and analysis visit our dedicated page here