The finding by delivery management experts Urbantz reveals that online interest in truck driver positions in the UK skyrocketed 14 times the average volume last month – an unprecedented spike in interest for truck driver vacancies, according to Google search data analysis.
In July, BakeryandSnacks reported the national driver shortage was causing concern across the entire food supply chain, and not least the baking industry, in getting product onto shelves. Paul Empson, GM of Bakers Basco, claims ‘the perfect storm’ of depleted fleets, an ageing workforce, Brexit and changing legislation all contributed to the crisis.
However, it’s evident the crisis has opened opportunities for job hopefuls across the world.
According to Urbantz’s research, data shows that interest in these jobs is the most widespread among Zimbabweans, followed by people living in Nigeria and Sri Lanka. South Africa and Ireland are also among the countries with the highest online searches for the UK-based employment.
The study also found the number of HGV vehicles registered in the UK decreased from 54,000 to 36,000 between 2019 and 2020, a reduction of a third, according to data collated from the Department of Transport.
“It’s fascinating to see how much online interest in UK-based truck driver jobs has increased across the globe, following news of the country’s unprecedented need for HGV drivers,” a spokesperson for Urbantz said.
“The fuel crisis and driver shortage has the potential to put a lot of pressure on the country, as we rely on deliveries for our basic necessities, so hopes will be high that search interest will convert into job applications.”
