Logistics experts Talent in Logistics have warned that there are ‘testing times ahead’ for the logistics sector as their research reveals a demoralised LGV workforce.

The company’s new driver engagement research has found that less than a third (30%) of LGV drivers in the UK feel valued by their employer.

The research, based on a survey which received more than 1,300 respondents during February and March 2020, also found that less than half of drivers feel motivated to work hard for their employers.

Carried out in collaboration with Pertemps Driving Division, prior to the start of the Covid-19 lockdown, the survey also showed that fewer than half of drivers believe that their company is diverse and inclusive in their recruitment. This was reinforced by the demographics of the survey respondents - more than seven out of 10 drivers surveyed (72.5%) were aged 41 or over, and 95% were male.

The research also found that fewer than half of the drivers surveyed said that they felt proud (47%) or motivated (49%) to work for their company.

Looking at survey results collectively, overall employee engagement for LGV drivers is around 48%. This is considerably lower than the national average, where two-thirds of UK workers are satisfied with their jobs.

‘During the coronavirus pandemic, drivers have been working extra hours to keep the country moving as “key workers” - it’s never been more apparent that they are vital to the supply chain,’ says Ruth Edwards, Business Development Director for Talent in Logistics.

‘However, our survey shows that employers have a long way to go to make drivers feel engaged, valued and important.’