Recently, the UK launched a campaign for the recruitment and retention of a skilled workforce in the logistics sector. It comes as a part of the Future of Freight plan by the government. Through the campaign, the UK government sets a strategy to enable the industry and the government to work together, more closely. The purpose of this approach is to deliver a seamless, world-class freight flow across the roads, seas, canals, skies, and railways of the country.
Led by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the General Logistics Campaign is backed by £345,000 in government funding. The campaign comprises an online hub of learning materials, job openings, and other resources to make it easier for people to start their careers in the industry. It will also cover radio and TV advertisements to attract potential candidates.
The campaign results from unprecedented government actions that came after global supply chain challenges during the pandemic. These efforts have led to the easing of pressure on various sectors.
The campaign comes after 33 other actions taken by the government to tackle driver shortage for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and hence, protect the supply chain. The list comprises more driving test slots, introducing boot camps, and investing in new roadside facilities. As a result, the availability of HGV drivers has stabilized.
The strategy includes an investment of £7 million for boosting the uptake of innovative new technology, digitalizing and decarbonizing the sector. Funding could be used for initiatives like supporting decarbonization by trailing hydrogen cranes or even testing low carbon fuels throughout the industry.
These technologies will help convert the freight sector into a more reliable, sustainable, resilient, and cost-efficient one. The investment will support a wider growth of the economy by making sure efficient operation of businesses through timely delivery of required goods at reasonable costs without jeopardizing their jobs.
Head of public policy at Logistics UK, Michelle Gardner, while speaking on the Future of Freight plan commented, “The publication of the Future of Freight plan is a positive step forward for industry; it reaffirms government’s vital support of one of the largest sectors of the UK economy and helps to provide clarity for logistics businesses moving forward.”
He also added “The inclusion of £7 million investment to boost the uptake of innovative new technologies and the development of a National Freight Network is particularly welcome. The government is also right to focus on planning rules to reduce barriers to building new logistics developments and driver parking and facilities – we look forward to engaging with the call for evidence.”