A HGV driver recruitment firm says they need better pay and conditions if a current nationwide shortage is to be addressed.
Phoenix Drivers Ltd says local clients are constantly requesting new drivers.
But according to statistics released by the Road Haulage Association, there’s currently a shortfall of 60,000 drivers.
Phoenix managing director Graham Brown says the reasons for the shortage include low pay, long working hours, Brexit having led to EU drivers returning to their home countries and a lack of roadside facilities.
“It is becoming a major problem, not only for South Holland, but for the whole country,” he said. “The transport supply chain is heading for disaster if more drivers decide that working in the haulage industry is not for them.
“The haulage industry needs to recruit and retain more HGV drivers now. To achieve this drivers need better compensation in terms of pay and conditions.
“During the pandemic there has been no new driver training or testing permitted to bring new recruits into the transport industry, although training has restarted as lockdown gradually eases.
“Lorries and lorry drivers have a massive impact on our daily lives.
“It affects all businesses and individuals as over 95 per cent of our everyday essentials are predominantly delivered using lorries.”
Phoenix hopes to attract more new drivers by holding open days which will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 20 and 21 between 9.30am and 4pm at Phoenix’s offices on 12 Enterprise Way, Pinchbeck.
“Our clients in Spalding are constantly requesting for extra HGV class one drivers,” Mr Brown said. “We hope that by holding recruitment open days, drivers who currently hold an HGV Class one licence currently not working within the haulage industry, to just pop into our office and have a chat to see what we might be able to offer them.”
For more information about the event contact 01775 762686.
