Warehousing is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK economy. The rise of ecommerce is a key driver of that growth and has been a catalyst for seismic change.
As traditional bricks and mortar stores have given way to online shopping, retailers are more focused than ever on delivering directly to consumers. Accordingly, warehouses have achieved greater prominence in the supply chain, providing complex value-added services and managing ever larger numbers of SKUs with omnichannel inventory. Operators must be highly responsive to rapidly changing demands, and deliver efficient, accurate and sustainable services, adhering to strict timelines.
These pressures are compounded by an acute shortage of high quality warehousing space, ongoing labour challenges and rising costs.
As the leading trade body for the warehousing sector, the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) is committed to supporting its 1,000 members in navigating all these issues. We provide professional advisory services through selected specialist partners, share best practice at networking events and dedicated training courses, promote opportunity within the industry at careers fairs and educational establishments, and engage with government to influence policy decisions directly affecting warehousing.
Energy and sustainability
Last year UKWA commissioned a major study into the pros and cons of putting solar panels on warehouse rooftops. The results showed that embracing solar PV will enable warehouses to source energy sustainably at a considerably reduced cost, as well as contributing towards net zero.
We have produced a step-by-step guide to installing solar PV for our members and are working with government, to address the potential barriers and discuss incentives.
Automation & digitalisation
The predicted surge in digital transformation means that warehouses no longer have a choice, but must embrace technology to stay ahead of the curve. Accordingly, our National Conference this year fielded experts to share information about the new opportunities available, how to access new systems, adopt different types of automation and how to pay for it!
Labour & Skills
In January UKWA introduced a 3-day residential Warehouse Management course, aimed at would-be Warehouse Managers as well as established leaders, keen to refresh their skills.
Later this year, the Association will be unveiling a comprehensive new qualification: the Warehouse Management Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). It has been purpose-built to encompass the widening responsibilities of the Warehouse Manager role, as warehouses continue to evolve.
Policy
Providing a voice for the industry means that UKWA needs to be in constant conversation with policy makers and influencers at all levels. Warehousing is the responsibility of government’s Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Community (DLUHC). Our work has raised awareness within government of the warehousing sector as an important part of the country’s economy.
UKWA’s new Policy Team is engaging with our members, so we can effectively respond to relevant government consultations, addressing ‘hot topics’ from Business Rates rises to Energy Bill Relief and Skills Support.
If you are a third-party warehouse & logistics services provider (3PL) or operate your own warehouse and would like to know more about the UK Warehousing Association, you can find out about the benefits of membership at www.ukwa.org.uk
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