The United Kingdom has been facing a driver shortage crisis for years, and it has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The haulage industry has been hit particularly hard, with many companies struggling to find enough drivers to meet demand. However, there is some good news on the horizon: two years after Brexit, hauliers are benefiting from pay rises that are helping to attract new drivers and retain existing ones.
Brexit has had a significant impact on the UK’s haulage industry, with many European drivers leaving the country due to uncertainty around their right to work. This has left a significant gap in the market, with many haulage companies struggling to find enough drivers to meet demand. However, the industry has responded by increasing pay rates, which has helped to attract new drivers and retain existing ones.
According to a recent survey by the Road Haulage Association (RHA), the average pay for a UK lorry driver has increased by 15% over the past two years. This is a significant increase, and it has helped to make the industry more attractive to potential drivers. In addition, many companies are offering sign-on bonuses and other incentives to attract new drivers, which has further helped to address the driver shortage.
The pay rises have been particularly beneficial for existing drivers, who have seen their wages increase significantly over the past two years. This has helped to improve morale and reduce staff turnover, which is essential for the long-term success of any business. In addition, the pay rises have helped to attract new drivers, many of whom were previously put off by the low wages and poor working conditions in the industry.
Of course, there is still a long way to go before the UK’s driver shortage crisis is fully resolved. However, the pay rises are a positive step in the right direction, and they demonstrate that the industry is taking the issue seriously. In addition, the government has recently announced plans to streamline the process for obtaining a HGV licence, which should help to attract more drivers to the industry.
In conclusion, the UK’s haulage industry has been facing a driver shortage crisis for years, but there are signs that the situation is improving. Two years after Brexit, hauliers are benefiting from pay rises that are helping to attract new drivers and retain existing ones. While there is still work to be done, the industry is moving in the right direction, and this is good news for everyone involved.
