Recruiters Warn of Ongoing Shortages of HGV Drivers – REC

Over half (54%) think that there is a chance deliveries won't arrive in time for Christmas because of a lack of drivers. 

The poll of 57 recruitment agencies supplying drivers to supermarkets, retailers and distribution firms also revealed that 70 per cent say shortages have worsened since last Christmas. 

Eight out of ten (82 per cent) participants think the situation could get even worse if access to EU workers is restricted in the future. 

REC chief executive Kevin Green says:   

“Our members are very concerned about ongoing problems in finding candidates for driver roles. Especially at this time of the year with Christmas shopping going on, not having enough drivers to deliver goods can have dire consequences. 

“We know that there are a number of reasons why the sector has problems finding new talent. These range from expensive training to high insurance rates for young drivers and bad infrastructure. The industry needs to tackle these issues and at the same time ensure that the working environment attracts a more diverse workforce. 

“If the government fails in securing EU workers’ rights post-Brexit the current predicament could turn into a catastrophe.”

Gethin Roberts, managing director of Drivers Direct, comments: 

 

“It is abundantly clear that the industry needs to attract new talent to meet the demand for skilled and qualified professional drivers for the future.

“Research shows that the average age of a HGV driver is 53, with only 2 per cent of HGV drivers aged under 25. To encourage people to join the industry we need to secure more funding for vocational training, better driver facilities and a campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of working in this rewarding sector.” 

Ends 

 

Notes to editors: 

 

1. For more information, contact the REC Press Office on 0207 009 2157/2192 or pressoffice@rec.uk.com. An ISDN line is available for interviews on 0207 021 0584

2. In November 2017 the REC surveyed 57 recruitment agencies that supply drivers: 

Are you currently experiencing a shortage of drivers?

Yes 98%

No 2%

Don’t know 0%

Compared with last Christmas do you feel shortages have

Worsened 70%

Improved 7%

Stayed the same 23%

Does the shortage of drivers mean there is a chance deliveries won't arrive in time for Christmas?

Yes 54%

No 19%

Don’t know 26%

Do you think the shortage of drivers will get worse if access to EU workers will be restricted?

Yes 82%

No 9%

Don’t know 9%

3. Jobs transform lives, which is why we are building the best recruitment industry in the world. As the professional body for recruitment we’re determined to make businesses more successful by helping them secure the people they need. We are absolutely passionate and totally committed in this pursuit for recruiters, employers, and the people they hire. Find out more about the Recruitment & Employment Confederation at www.rec.uk.com