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The lastest victim of the HGV driver shortage is McDonalds, who today issued a warning that some of their products, including bottled drinks and milkshakes, are out of stock due to the continuing lack og HGV drivers. Other household names have felt the pinch too. Nando’s closed around 50 of its resteraunts last week due to a chicken shortage, and Haribo have been “experiencing challenges” getting their products to the shops. Recently, it has been reported that we might suffer from a beer shortage as pubs and breweries run dry. Companies also cite other factors, including the “pingdemic” and Brexit, to explain their delivery issues.
The Road Haulage Association reports a shortage of more than 100,000 drivers in the UK. In their survey of employers, just under 30% said that it was taking longer than 8 weeks to fill a HGV driver vacancy.
• The job has a reputation for low pay, long hours and poor conditions.
• Lessons and tests were suspended during the pandemic.
• Working from home has become more realistic and favourable option.
• European drivers have left the UK following Brexit.
• The average age of drivers is 56. Current drivers are getting closer to or reaching retirement.
• 1% of drivers are under 25. Young people aren’t joining the industry.
• Getting a HGV licence can cost up to £5,000.
• The cost of insuring a HGV driver under 25 is very high, which discourages businesses from employing them.
• Stereotyping can prevent women from entering the profession. Only 1.2% of drivers are female.
98% of all consumed goods in the UK are delivered by truck at some point. Maintaining the haulage industry is paramount. So what can be done about it?
