Dutch Brexit Insurance Policy Proves Profitable for UK Entrepreneur Rana Harvey

A strategic decision to establish a Dutch warehouse ahead of Brexit has yielded remarkable success for Monster Group’s founder Rana Harvey. The York-based entrepreneur’s foresight in spring 2019 to secure European operations has transformed into a pivotal growth driver for her business.

The Netherlands facility, which began as a modest 20,000 sq ft operation, has expanded to an impressive 85,000 sq ft space—larger than most football pitches. This expansion reflects the company’s robust European growth, with EU sales now representing 50% of Monster Group’s £17.2 million turnover.

Harvey’s company, which specialises in racking and shelving alongside a diverse product range including kitchen appliances and garden furniture, achieved £2.3 million in pre-tax profits for the year ending March 2024. The latest financial reports indicate further growth, with turnover reaching £25 million.

The business currently employs 90 staff across its York headquarters, a 93,000 sq ft Scunthorpe warehouse, and the Dutch facility. “I wish we didn’t have to do it. I’d love nothing more than bringing it all back to the UK, but that’s not going to happen,” Harvey explained, acknowledging the post-Brexit reality.

The entrepreneur’s journey began with humble origins in telesales before transitioning to scientific equipment sales. Her initial venture into e-commerce started with selling mannequins through her company, Dazzling Dummies, which later evolved into Monster Group.

Harvey’s business acumen shone through during the Brexit transition period when she heeded advice from her mentor Barry Dodd to “take it out of the politicians’ hands and run with it.” This decisive action positioned Monster Group advantageously in the European market, despite the challenges of Brexit and global supply chain disruptions.

The company’s success story demonstrates how strategic planning and adaptability can transform potential Brexit obstacles into opportunities for growth and market expansion. Monster Group’s current trajectory suggests continued success in both UK and European markets, with Harvey’s leadership focusing on pushing boundaries rather than maintaining stability.