FIAS uptake encouraging… but some way to go

Interest in the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme, FIAS, is high with over 100 companies attending recent FIAS seminars and more than 30 businesses having applied formally to join the scheme, says AIC Services which operates the new assurance scheme.

A new FIAS register is now available on the AIC website – www.agindustries.org.uk – listing the companies that have applied to join the scheme.

Commenting on the number of companies that have applied to join FIAS, John Kelley, Managing Director of AIC Service said :

“FIAS, launched in January, has had an encouraging start with some of the largest manufacturing companies signing up, along with smaller operators,” said John Kelley, Managing Director of AIC Services. “However, we still need more uptake from across all sectors of the industry as the level of uptake is one of the key indicators we have to report back to Defra on the progress of FIAS.”

PAI, the company responsible for managing FIAS audits, reports that audits have already started and the first companies to gain full approval should be announced during the summer.

AIC, along with PAI, are making direct contact with companies within the fertiliser industry supply chain to encourage applications and resolve specific FIAS queries.

A new FIAS flyer and poster, explaining the steps and timescale to achieve certification have been published and can be downloaded from the AIC website, or from Nick Palik on 01733 385 250.

Further information on the scheme can be obtained from AIC’s Simon Williams on 01733 385245 or Martin Jowett of PAI on 01423 878874.