The UK could be on the verge of another heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver shortage unless urgent steps are taken to attract younger workers into the industry, a leading training provider has warned.
John Keelan-Edwards, Managing Director of Driver Hire Training, said the country is “on the cusp of a mass retirement wave” that could severely disrupt supply chains if not addressed. Over half of the current HGV workforce is aged between 50 and 65, raising concerns about a looming exodus from the profession in the coming years.
“There is soon to be a wave of drivers retiring and leaving the industry,” Keelan-Edwards said. “If this imbalance between those leaving and those entering continues, the situation could become critical.”
His comments revive memories of the pandemic-era driver shortages that caused widespread supply chain issues, empty supermarket shelves, and nationwide fuel disruptions. While emergency government incentives helped ease the crisis at the time, Keelan-Edwards says the long-term solution — attracting and retaining younger drivers — remains elusive.
One of the key barriers, he noted, is the declining appeal of the profession among younger generations. “Sign-on bonuses and short-term incentives only go so far,” he said. “We need a cultural shift where driving is viewed as a viable, rewarding career with flexibility, travel opportunities, and decent wages.”
Young people often choose alternative careers before they are eligible to train for an HGV licence. Coupled with concerns about long hours and insufficient support, the image of professional driving has deteriorated.
Keelan-Edwards argues that early engagement, better media representation, and improved access to high-quality vocational training are essential to reversing this trend. “The romantic image of life on the road has faded. We need to revive that — show young people the potential in logistics.”
Another hurdle lies with employers and insurers, who are often reluctant to hire young, inexperienced drivers. This creates a catch-22 scenario where young candidates can’t gain experience because they aren’t given the opportunity to start.
“A supported transition from training to employment is critical,” said Keelan-Edwards. “With the right mentoring and oversight, younger drivers can excel — and the industry needs them to.”
He urged government departments, insurers, training organisations, and industry bodies to work together on long-term recruitment strategies, including funding support and national campaigns promoting logistics careers.
“The industry cannot solve this alone. We must all take responsibility to ensure the sustainability of one of the UK’s most vital sectors,” he said. “HGV driving is a career to be proud of — and the time to act is now.”
