Grahame Neagus, Head of LCV, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland: As society fully embraces online deliveries following the fallout of COVID-19, with more families shopping from home, sales of Light Commercial Vehicle sales have surged. Both new and existing clients are taking more and more vehicles which are hitting the roads to assist in the shortfall of available logistics providers. As a result, LCV sales at Renault Trucks are booming, but there have been other areas of opportunity which are laying the foundations for future success within our industry.
The changing face of drivers
For businesses to meet the rise in on-time deliveries, we need more professional drivers. As the viability of jobs in other sectors becomes more uncertain, the demand for good LCV drivers has never been greater. Traditionally seen as a male dominated job role, one of the most pleasing aspects of this recent growth is the increase of female drivers joining our industry. According to a recent survey, female delivery drivers have increased by 104%. Although we knew that employment patterns were changing, the rise in female van drivers taking to the roads is quite staggering when coupled with the fact that some 32% of van owners in the UK are also women.
Today’s modern LCV up to 3,500kgs GVW is a far cry from the drafty motors of old, with current vans having every conceivable piece of technology built into them and drivetrains that are smooth and effortless.
Making a day’s shift in such a vehicle quite pleasurable. So, what’s the problem?
According to the Office for National Statistics, the average height of adult men is 5’9’’ where as for women it’s 5’3’’. Vehicle design will always develop and evolve to meet the ever changing needs of our industry, but we also need to take into account the changing needs of our driver population. So, with the increase in female drivers, we need vehicles which cater for all, equally. Not only will this ensure employees are comfortable and safe but also gives the peace of mind when it comes to compliance.
As we welcome more women into transport and logistics, we need to support them throughout their career while addressing any gender imbalance or inequality. Industry bodies such as Women in Logistics, part of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK), are driving the change: by championing female talent and providing the platform to attract, engage and inspire the next generation, we are creating an inclusive industry that is open to all.
The pandemic has shown us just how vital the transport and logistics industry is: whether out on the roads, in warehouses or distribution centres, everyone who plays their part is a #ProudProfessional. It’s never been a more valued career choice – for everyone.
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