A new report from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) highlights an urgent issue. The UK logistics industry must recruit 40,000 new HGV drivers annually. This must happen over the next five years. Otherwise, the 2021 driver shortage could recur. The report, Lorry Drivers – The Vital Link, focuses on a critical point. Road transport carries 81% of all UK freight. Without drivers, this system would fail.
The industry faces a growing skills gap. This is due to an aging workforce and rising demand. Without action, severe disruptions could follow. Supply chains will be impacted. Both businesses and consumers will suffer.
One solution is offering more HGV skills bootcamp programs. These programs help bridge the growing skills gap. A well-trained workforce is essential for success.
Collaboration Needed to Future-Proof the Industry
The RHA is calling for action. The Government and industry leaders must act decisively. Key recommendations include:
-
Greater flexibility in the Growth and Skills Levy to support driver training.
-
Stronger industry partnerships with schools and colleges to promote logistics careers.
-
Industry-specific training programs must be developed. This includes T-Levels and HGV skills bootcamp initiatives. These programs will attract new talent.
Gary Barndout, Corporative Head of HGVC, emphasized the urgency of structured recruitment and retention strategies:
Gary Barndout, Corporative Head of HGVC, emphasized the urgency of structured recruitment and retention strategies:
“The road transport sector is crucial to the UK economy. Recruiting and training tens of thousands of drivers is essential. The workforce is aging, so action is needed. We must attract younger people into the industry. Flexible, funded training options are key. Industry, Government, and training providers must collaborate. This is essential for a stable logistics future.”
Addressing Barriers for Young and Female Drivers
With only 2.2% of HGV drivers under 24, the industry risks losing a generation of talent. Gary Barndout pointed to high insurance costs as a major barrier for young drivers:
“Employers struggle to take on newly qualified drivers due to high insurance premiums. A Government-backed scheme offering reduced premiums could open more opportunities for young talent.”
“Employers struggle to take on newly qualified drivers due to high insurance premiums. A Government-backed scheme offering reduced premiums could open more opportunities for young talent.”
The report also sheds light on gender disparity in the sector. Currently, just 1% of HGV drivers are female.
Gary Berndout puts in, “Many people don’t know how accessible HGV driving is. No school qualifications are required. Only a driving license and CPC training are needed. The job is flexible and pays well. It also offers a variety of roles. More women joining the sector through HGV skills bootcamp programs will inspire others to follow.”
Improving Industry Conditions for RetentionThe RHA report underscores the need to improve working conditions to retain drivers. Secure parking, clean rest facilities, and better food options at rest stops are critical factors.
Improving Industry Conditions for Retention
The RHA report underscores the need to improve working conditions to retain drivers. Secure parking, clean rest facilities, and better food options at rest stops are critical factors.
“Better infrastructure will enhance driver well-being and retention,” Berndout added. “Investment in facilities, along with accessible HGV skills bootcamp training, will show that the industry values its workforce.”
A Call to Action
The UK’s logistics industry is at a crossroads. Without urgent action, the driver shortage could escalate. This would threaten supply chain stability and economic growth. The RHA urges the Government to act quickly. Businesses and training institutions must collaborate. Expanding HGV skills bootcamp programs is key. This will help safeguard the future of UK road transport.
HGVC is dedicated to delivering high-quality driver training. This includes HGV skills bootcamp courses. These programs provide essential skills and certifications. They ensure readiness for logistics careers. By investing in structured training, HGVC fosters a sustainable workforce. This commitment strengthens industry resilience. It also supports long-term supply chain stability in the UK.
Comment on this article