The UK has seen a significant rise in the number of HGV drivers, with figures from Logistics UK showing an increase of nearly 55,000 drivers in the past year – a growth of almost 21%. Targeted efforts to tackle the driver shortage, which worsened two years ago, are paying off, with 31,630 drivers under 35 joining the workforce between Q3 2023 and Q3 2024.

While the rise in younger drivers is encouraging, Logistics UK warns that the industry remains heavily reliant on older workers, with over 53% of drivers aged 50 or above. Bethany Windsor, head of skills policy at Logistics UK, highlighted the success of recruitment campaigns, improved pay, and government-backed training initiatives in addressing the workforce gap but cautioned that deeper challenges persist.

“It’s positive to see younger drivers entering the profession, but issues surrounding pay, working conditions, and ageing demographics need long-term solutions,” Windsor said. “Sustainable strategies, rather than focusing solely on headcounts, are key to tackling the sector’s challenges.” Windsor also praised initiatives like Generation Logistics for raising awareness and urged the government to extend funding for these programmes into 2025.

Logistics UK’s employment update revealed ongoing recruitment difficulties for skilled roles like technicians, with over half of businesses (51.8%) reporting severe shortages. Windsor called for a shift in public perception, positioning logistics as a viable, long-term career akin to retail or healthcare.