As National Lorry Week draws to a close, new figures continue to highlight the vital importance of the logistics sector and the growing need to attract the next generation of HGV drivers into the industry.
According to the Road Haulage Association report Lorry Drivers – The Vital Link, around 81% of all UK freight is transported by road, with approximately 684,000 active HGV drivers currently working across the country.
However, the sector faces significant workforce challenges in the years ahead. The report estimates that around 40,000 new drivers will be needed every year over the next five years to meet demand, while approximately 73,000 HGV tests will be required annually to support recruitment needs.
The figures also highlight the need to encourage greater diversity within the industry, with only 1.6% of drivers currently under the age of 24 and around 2% being women.
The wider UK logistics sector contributes an estimated £170 billion annually to the economy, underlining the essential role drivers play in keeping businesses, communities and supply chains moving every day.
National Lorry Week continues to shine a spotlight on the professionalism, resilience and importance of drivers who remain the vital link in keeping the country running.
