On the road – Logistics UK’s new CEO meets members and policy makers nationwide

Mr Fletcher has been criss-crossing the UK in the past few weeks, meeting a variety of members as well as Logistics UK staff and politicians, and immersing himself in the work of the association to understand the issues facing members of all sizes, as well as identifying the areas where the organisation has the most impact.

In addition to attending a vehicle inspection appointment with engineer Aaron Knight, the programme of activity has seen Fletcher visiting businesses in Northern Ireland and the Midlands, viewing the latest vehicle technologies, attending member meetings and getting an understanding of operations of all sizes across the industry. He has held meetings with politicians including Rachel Taylor MP, in both Westminster and at member premises in their constituencies and more activity is planned in the coming weeks.

“Over the past few weeks, I have been delighted to meet members across the UK and see for myself the energy and enthusiasm that spreads right across our sector,” said Ben Fletcher. “It was great to see for myself the expertise that our vehicle inspectors like Aaron have that keeps operators safe and compliant, while I was thrilled to witness the first trip through the Channel Tunnel by an electric HGV organised by Kuehne+Nagel – a clear demonstration of the innovation and initiative that is rife across the sector.

“MPs are keen to engage with us and understand what our industry can do to drive the economy forwards, which is encouraging, and while there is still much for me to see and learn, I am so grateful for the time shared with me by members right across the country.

“We have a big challenge ahead of us, but it is clear this is a sector with the drive and ambition to deliver for UK plc. I look forward to learning even more about it.”

Pic details: (l) to (r) Peter Roberts, Commercial Strategy Director, LeShuttle Freight; Alistair Barnes, Senior Programme Manager, Innovate UK; Kate Broome, Sustainability and Social Impact Director, Kuehne+Nagel; Michael Boxwell, Corporate Development Officer, Voltempo; Chris McDonald, Minister for Industry in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT); Ben Fletcher, Chief Executive, Logistics UK; Amanda Hack MP; Louis Jones, EV & Connected Services Director, DAF Trucks UK; Eleanor Edmonds, Director, Road Logistics, Kuehne+Nagel; Matthew Grigor, Senior Policy & Public Affairs Manager, Getlink; Simon Smith, CEO, Voltempo.