UK launches Generation Logistics campaign to bolster supply chain

The Generation Logistics campaign, led by Logistics UK, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, and backed by £345,000 government funding, includes an online hub full of resources, learning materials and job openings to make it easier for people to start their career in the industry. The campaign also includes TV and radio advertisements to help attract potential candidates.

This builds on the government’s unprecedented action during the pandemic, which has led to sector reports of pressures easing, following global challenges on the supply chain, according to an official release.

The launch follows the government’s 33 actions taken to tackle the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver shortage and protect the supply chain. This included increasing the number of driving test slots, investing in new roadside facilities and introducing bootcamps, which has seen the number of available HGV drivers stabilise.

The strategy includes £7 million in investment to boost the uptake of innovative new technology, helping decarbonise and digitalise the sector. Funding could go towards initiatives like trialling hydrogen cranes to support decarbonisation or even testing low carbon fuels across the industry.

These technologies will support a more cost-efficient, reliable, resilient and sustainable freight sector. Today’s investment will support wider economic growth by ensuring businesses can operate efficiently, getting the goods they need on time and at a reasonable cost while safeguarding their jobs.

Speaking on the Future of Freight plan, Michelle Gardner, head of public policy at Logistics UK commented: “The publication of the Future of Freight plan is a positive step forward for industry; it reaffirms government’s vital support of one of the largest sectors of the UK economy and helps to provide clarity for logistics businesses moving forward.

“The inclusion of £7 million investment to boost the uptake of innovative new technologies and the development of a National Freight Network is particularly welcome. The government is also right to focus on planning rules to reduce barriers to building new logistics developments and driver parking and facilities – we look forward to engaging with the call for evidence.”

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DS)