Skill shortage in logistics

Recruitment and logistics specialist, Clarico has seen an increasing skill shortage in the logistics sector in recent years.

Manchester based Clarico is a recruitment and logistics business – providing businesses with not only the vehicles they require to run their business but with the manpower to operate the vehicles as well.

The business which was founded in 2007 is finding it ever more challenging to find suitable candidates with the qualifications required to work in this industry.

Estimates show that nearly 1,456 extra drivers were needed in the UK in 2008 while the number of individuals taking and passing their LGV test is declining year on year.

The logistics sector is fundamental in the UK's economy and without it a huge number of industries would fall down - it has been estimated that the British economy would fall down within just a week if there were no trucks on the road carrying freight.

The importance of the industry makes it essential that more young people are encouraged to consider a career in logistics.

Jamie Town, Director of Clarico, explained: "It is becoming increasingly difficult for logistics companies to find the right people – there are simply not enough people going into the industry.

The logistics industry is currently dominated by males with less than 1% of the workforce being female and around 16% of LGV drivers being over 60 which is a worrying prospect for the future.

Jamie, said: "Those that are going into the industry are not being suitably trained – which is an issue that needs addressing sooner rather than later. The logistics industry needs more support from schools and colleges in encouraging more students to consider a career in the industry."