Driver Shortage Continues To Impact

The driver shortage is not improving and is beginning to impact many aspects of our day to day lives now – not just container transport.

Over the past two weeks, we have witnessed many major brands and organisations have major supply issues caused by a lack of LGV drivers.

Tesco & Sainsbury’s have seen a major shortage in certain products, Mcdonalds’ have been unable to serve milkshakes, many UK pubs and bars have been running out of beer, in some areas refuse collections have been impacted and Iceland have today suggested Christmas is at risk.

Despite the ongoing issue, the main request from the RHA (Road Haulage Association), to temporarily allow working visas for foreign national LGV drivers, has reportedly been denied by UK government.

The RHA delivered their urgent request via a letter to the government last month, which was countersigned by many industry and supply chain leaders. Their main suggestion was to allow a similar visa approach to the one currently applied to fruit and farm workers, which has seemingly been dismissed.

Meanwhile, container transport continues to be one of the worst affected areas and we are witnessing lengthy delays in finding vehicles with drivers. It is essential that you provide us with as much notice as possible to arrange collections and deliveries.

As ever, Atlantic Pacific continue to work diligently to mitigate supply chain disruption during these extremely difficult times. Should you require further information on the above, then please do not hesitate to contact us.