The 4th to 8th November is National Lorry Week, designed to celebrate the drivers and trucks making up the UK road transport sector – and powering UK industry. Organised by the Road Haulage Association, 2024’s event is the tenth National Lorry Week, and will focus on the career paths open to young people in the industry.
In supporting companies such as Yearsley Food, Palletways and Choice Logistics with our software solutions, OneAdvanced sees firsthand the hard work of drivers and other road haulage professionals, supporting the UK economy in roles that are often overlooked. As our Vice President of Distribution, Logistics and Manufacturing Adrian West put it, "National Lorry Week is a chance to give back and get involved with the driving force (pun intended!) behind the sectors we work with."
In a previous blog we described how our products are built to suit drivers and the unique demands of life on the road. Now, for National Lorry Week, we consider five reasons to be excited about – and maybe consider a career in – road freight:
1. The industry powers business, in the face of challenges
Despite facing hurdles like geopolitical volatility, uncertainties at ports, and fluctuating fuel prices, the road freight industry contributes £13.5 billion to the UK economy each year. This resilience is a testament to the industry's adaptability and strategic importance, with 89 percent of all freight in the UK moved by road.
And the picture could improve: 38 percent of respondents to Logistics UK’s recent survey are anticipating economic improvement for 2024. Another cause of optimism is the postponement to post-Brexit rules like the EU Entry/Exit system and security and safety declarations, buying time for the UK transport sector to adjust.
2. Road freight is evolving with new technologies – and you can be part of the change
The adoption of data analytics and AI in transport and logistics is low compared to Germany and America, and other sectors, with less than a fifth of transport companies in the UK relying on AI currently. However, the direction of movement is firmly towards modernisation and digitalisation, with 50 percent of supply chain organisations likely to invest in applications that support artificial intelligence and advanced analytical capabilities throughout 2024.
Individuals joining the industry now have the opportunity to grow as the sector does, taking part in digital upskilling and shaping the future, and guiding the implementation of new technologies.
3. The government is investing in the next tranche of talent
Recognising the importance of a skilled workforce, the government and industry stakeholders are investing in training programmes and initiatives that promote careers in logistics. One of the most significant of these is Generation Logistics, a sector-led, government backed campaign to change perceptions of the sector. It has generated 3.7 million social media engagements and 789,000 visitors to its online hub – creating a buzz around pursuing a career in logistics, including roles in road freight. These efforts to attract young and talented individuals will bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the industry.
4. Working conditions for drivers set to improve thanks to funding
A £12 million boost from both government and industry is dedicated to improving working conditions for drivers. Investment will be made into 430 new lorry parking spaces (to avoid drivers having to park in town centres or at the side of the road and resulting congestion), better dining, changing and rest facilities for drivers, as well as new CCTV and secure fencing to boost welfare and security. This investment strengthens the road freight sector, testament to its position as a vital component of the economy and makes drivers' day-to-day lives better.
5. An exciting future emerges in decarbonisation
Decarbonisation is a critical focus for the road freight industry as it strives to reduce its environmental impact. £2 million of funding is going towards new technology for decarbonising freight and driving innovation in the sector. There is also the £46 million TransiT Hub, a partnership of universities and industry, that aims to identify the lowest cost, least risky and most energy-efficient way to decarbonise transport, largely through digital twinning: data analysis tools that can simulate and create responses to different scenarios, to improve processes in the real world. Road freight will play a critical role in achieving a greener and more sustainable future, and individuals joining the sector now have a chance to be part of the movement.
The road ahead
The road freight industry will continue to evolve and adapt, all whilst making a significant contribution to the economy. As businesses invest in talent, leverage innovation and prioritise sustainability, the breadth and scope of roles and experiences on offer in the sector is expanding – and OneAdvanced is proud to support this. If you are a road freight operator, now is a perfect time to shout about the great work you and your drivers do and educate others about the future of the sector and potential for career growth. Find out more about National Lorry Week here.