FTA announces finalists for Van Excellence Driver of the Year 2018 competitions

Friday 13 July 2018

The Freight Transport Association (FTA), the largest membership body in the UK logistics sector, has revealed the finalists in 2018’s prestigious Van Excellence Driver of the Year and Van Excellence Young Driver of the Year competitions.

Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, the awards recognise the skills of the British economy’s unsung heroes – the dedicated and highly skilled drivers who keep all sectors of business trading. The finalists for this year’s competition have been selected for their outstanding commitment, technical skills, diligence and compliance knowledge, and represent a wide range of UK companies in a number of different business sectors.

The 21 shortlisted candidates will be put through their paces during an intensive final assessment day at Mercedes-Benz Commercial centre in Barnsley, West Yorkshire on Thursday 19 July. They will face a series of rigorous test which cover all areas of their roles, including legislation, driving skills, risk assessment, and vehicle defection. The winning applicant in each category –  Driver of the Year and a Young Driver of the Year – will then be presented with their award.

“Van drivers really are the backbone of the British economy, and it represents an excellent career option for individuals of all ages, background and genders,” commented Mark Cartwright, Head of Vans, FTA. “Drivers need to deploy several skill sets on a daily basis, including problem solving, technical understanding, initiative and time management, and this variety and challenge makes it an attractive option for ambitious individuals looking for a fulfilling career.”

He continues: “These accolades are the cornerstone of FTA’s Van Excellence programme – a scheme to raise compliance levels and promote excellence – and we are honoured to be able to recognise and reward the individuals who are the embodiment of scheme’s aspirations.”

Steve Bridge, Managing Director at Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, added: “We are delighted to welcome such hard working drivers to be celebrated at our Northern facility, Wentworth Park. We are proud to support the finalists of this competition and contribute to the celebration of their work.

“We at Mercedes-Benz Vans are constantly striving for further driver efficiency and safety on our roads and are proud to work with the FTA on this event alongside our other aligned work throughout the Van Excellence Programme.

“We are excited to see the drivers put our New Sprinter through its paces, and explore the new technology and safety this vehicle has to offer.”

The shortlist features expert drivers from Asda, BT Fleet, Balfour Beatty, Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, AAH, Greencore, Murphy Plant, The Clancy Group, Bott Ltd, J M Hall Couriers Ltd, Scottish Water, Berendsen, Amey Fleet Services, and McGinley Support Services.

For further information on the Van Excellence Scheme, including how to join, please visit Van Excellence.

For more information on our sponsor, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, please visit Mercedes Benz Vans.