Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, their role in keeping the economy moving and supporting households was thrown into sharp relief, with the nation relying on home deliveries more than ever before. The logistics industry continuously adapts to meet demand and new analysis of the latest ONS statistics, published 16 February 2022, in Logistics UK’s Skills and Employment Update indicates a significant rise in the number of people driving vans across the UK – there was a net increase of 17,000 van drivers from Q4 2019 to Q4 2021.
This is encouraging for the sector, which saw a 39.9% reduction in EU van drivers across the same period. An increase of 30,000 UK drivers and 2,000 ‘rest of world drivers’ saw the overall net increase figure rise, enabling the van sector to continue efficiently supporting the nation.
With the number of van drivers on the rise, it is crucial that compliance remains a priority for operators. Logistics UK will continue to provide the most up-to-date insights into compliance and key van operational issues through its calendar of van events throughout the year, starting with its Vans Today 2022. More information can be found at www.logistics.org.uk/events.
Logistics UK is also delighted to partner with some of the most innovative companies in the van market as the sector continues to grow and develop, and is thankful for the ongoing support from its Van Gold Partners: the AA, Bott Ltd, Brigade Electronics, Lex Autolease, Quartix and TVL. These sponsors bring expert knowledge on a range of key issues such as security, road safety, vehicle equipment and efficient fleet tracking, and are always happy to share their knowledge and advice with members.
The van market is on the rise and with new trailblazing technologies being introduced across the industry, is at the forefront of the logistics sector’s route to decarbonisation. As consumers continue to embrace the convenience of home deliveries, the role of the van, whether conventionally or innovatively fuelled, will be a key component to the continued success of UK plc.
