A growing shortage of HGV drivers in the UK could reach a critical point within five years, according to industry expert John Keelan-Edwards, Managing Director of Driver Hire Training. The warning comes as over half of the current workforce is approaching retirement, with little sign of a younger generation stepping in to replace them.

While pandemic-era shortages were eased by short-term fixes and government support, Keelan-Edwards argues the underlying issues remain. “There is soon to be a wave of drivers retiring and leaving the industry,” he says. “And if we don’t act now, the gap they leave will be hard to fill.”

According to industry data, 55% of HGV drivers are aged between 50 and 65. As they retire over the next five to ten years, there’s concern the pool of available drivers could shrink drastically. Without a pipeline of new talent, essential supply chains could face delays and disruption.

“There are several factors at play,” Keelan-Edwards explains. “We don’t have as many overseas drivers as we once did, and professional driving still lacks diversity. At the same time, there’s a lack of interest among young people and school leavers.”

With fewer young drivers entering the workforce, the imbalance between retirements and new entrants is growing. Keelan-Edwards warns that incentives like sign-on bonuses might temporarily relieve pressure, but a long-term solution needs to be built around awareness, access and support.

Barriers for Young Entrants

One major issue is timing. “By the time someone is old enough for HGV training, they’ve often already chosen another path,” he says. “And the appeal of long-distance driving isn’t what it used to be.”

Driver Hire Training believes the industry needs to do more to highlight the positives. “We need a real focus on the benefits—flexibility, decent wages, travel, independence—and that message has to reach people when they’re young or considering a career change.”

Keelan-Edwards also calls for better access to funded training. “Vocational education should be affordable and properly supported. If we can do that, and companies are prepared to hire younger drivers with the right training, we’ll see real progress.”

Industry Must Support the Transition

A common issue is that many companies remain hesitant to hire younger drivers due to insurance restrictions or concerns about inexperience. But Keelan-Edwards believes that with proper training and support, younger workers can thrive. “We need to ensure a smooth transition from training to the first role. That means mentorship, hands-on support and a shift in hiring attitudes.”

He concludes: “We all have a part to play—industry, government, insurers and educators. Logistics is essential to the economy, and driving is a career to be proud of. But we need to act now to avoid a critical shortage of HGV drivers in the years ahead.”

More information:
Driver Hire Training – https://www.driverhiretraining.co.uk

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