The Negative Economic Implications on St Andrews and Fife
May 2025
Authors: Paisley Andrews (Head Researcher), Maura Lucke, Ellen Vaynberg Editor: Edwin Brattselius Editor-In-Chief: Cadence Mak Deputy Editor: Grace Risucci
Executive Summary
This research paper analyses the economic implications of Brexit on Fife and St. Andrews. Three sectors will be discussed: small local businesses, large firms, and the University of St. Andrews.
Small and local businesses in Fife and St. Andrews were negatively impacted by Brexit due to importation and exportation regulations, worker limitations, and decreased business confidence. These impacts have led to higher costs and decreased profits. However, some SMEs have turned to new strategies and markets, resulting in stronger branding.
Larger firms in Fife and St. Andrews were affected negatively by import and export regulations and worker limitations. However, given their expansive resources and capacity, their strategies remained almost consistent even after increased costs.
The University of St. Andrews was negatively impacted, given the decrease in EU applications, termination of Erasmus, and a significant increase in administrative workload.
Whilst there may have been positive impacts, they do not outweigh the negatives. Possible policies that would benefit St. Andrews and Fife are relaxing immigration regulations, aligning with Europe on trade deals, or discussing further the implications of independence and reuniting with the EU.