Scottish government needs to appoint dedicated logistics minister, says Logistics UK’s Alexandra Herdman

       - Unlocking investment through public-private partnerships

- Innovative and integrated infrastructure

- A just transition to a green economy

- Addressing the skills challenge

Outlining the vital role logistics plays in driving the Scottish economy, Logistics UK’s Senior Policy Manager - Scotland, Alexandra Herdman, says, “There are more than 200,000 people employed in logistics roles in Scotland and we have over 10,000 logistics businesses, making, selling and moving the goods that the country’s economy relies on every day.

“The contribution the sector makes cannot be understated but we also know that there is a significant opportunity for Scotland and the UK as a whole if our industry can realise its full potential.

“By prioritising logistics, Scottish policymakers can help deliver productivity gains to help supercharge the UK economy by up to £7.9 billion per year by 2030. Logistics can have a dramatic impact on the growth of the Scottish economy if time and money is invested in facilitating the sector’s efficiency, which is why we are recommending the appointment of a dedicated minister for logistics and supply chain who can deliver across the Scottish government.”

Identifying these four key areas to drive inclusive growth, the report highlights the strategic role a partnership between the Scottish government and logistics businesses would play by unlocking investment and enabling the sector to maximise the benefit it delivers.

It also emphasises the importance of interconnected infrastructure to utilise different transport modes efficiently, and identifies key infrastructure priorities for Scotland including the planned dualling of the A9 and rail capacity improvements and electrification. 

In addition, the report stresses how a just transition to net zero is key to ensuring Scotland maximises the impact of a thriving logistics sector.

Alexandra Herdman explains, “The logistics sector is committed to playing its part to help achieve net zero and recognises its responsibilities, but it is equally clear this must be a just transition that keeps costs down and supply chains resilient.”

Herdman continues, “Our industry is packed with interesting, well-paid jobs which underpin the whole economy, but attracting people to logistics must be a team effort. To achieve this, Logistics UK is pressing the Scottish government, Skills Development Scotland, and education providers to ensure young people and those looking for a new career have an accurate impression of the logistics sector and the range of the critical and fulfilling careers available.”

Download a copy of “Logistics: underpinning Scotland’s economy” here: 

Published On: 06/06/2024 15:00:00

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