Logistics businesses should take the chance to speak out against the worsening skills shortage, according to FTA, as it calls on industry to support the call for evidence launched by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Road Freight and Logistics.

Sally Gilson, Head of Skills at FTA, the organisation representing the interests of the logistics sector, commented: “FTA is thrilled the APPG on Road Freight and Logistics has launched a call to evidence into the skills shortage. The logistics sector is already dealing with a severe shortfall – there are currently 52,000 vacancies for HGVs drivers alone – and with Brexit looming, losing access to vital EU workers will be simply catastrophic for both the logistics sector and wider economy. After all, the sector is the lifeblood of the UK economy, delivering the goods and services businesses need to operate, and contributing £121 billion to the nation’s GVA (gross value added). And while the sector is working hard to attract new homegrown talent, we are competing against many other industries also suffering skills shortages; we need more support.”

Ms Gilson added: “Our members regularly come to us with same problem: the inability to fill transport and warehousing positions. This survey presents an opportunity for businesses to have their voices heard, a chance to express their concerns and frustrations, in addition to providing a platform to share ideas and suggestions. FTA has been campaigning relentlessly over the years for the government to grasp the full nature of the skills shortage and the threat it poses: without logistics workers; the economy will come grinding to halt and British trade will suffer irrevocably.”

The deadline to submit responses is 30^th April 2019. The survey can be completed by clicking this link: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/FX53SCM

Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain trading, directly having an impact on more than seven million people employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.  With Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to Government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers.   

Freight Transport AssociationFTA

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