The report cites data by the IRU, which indicates that a significant proportion of drivers, specifically 34%, are aged 55 years or older.
SNAP says this demographic trend raises concerns about an imminent wave of retirements among truckers, which could potentially leave the industry grappling with a shortage of experienced drivers in the coming decade.
“The challenge of retaining HGV drivers has long existed, and when compounded by the complications arising from Brexit and an increased demand for delivery services following the pandemic, the industry is now at a critical juncture. The diminishing number of new drivers entering the profession, coupled with those leaving, places us at a tipping point,” Myra McPartlin, Head of Commercial at SNAP, points out.
According to SNAP, the heightened demand in the haulage industry can be partly attributed to the surge in online shopping and food deliveries. Data reveals that in 2023, there have been 239 million meal deliveries and 180 million grocery deliveries across Europe.
SNAP’s audience research also underscores that safety concerns at truck parks significantly contribute to the driver shortage across Europe.
Earlier this year, the European Parliament’s Transport Committee introduced strict deadlines for the construction and opening of safe and secure parking sites throughout Europe, aiming to mitigate the driver shortage. However, SNAP raises questions about whether these measures will be sufficient.
“Driver safety is of paramount importance and plays a critical role in retaining employees, but this must go hand in hand with fair wages and improved working conditions,” McPartlin emphasizes.
If the current trend persists, predictions from Cedefop suggest that by 2035, the driver and vehicle operator industry may experience a 1.6% decrease in employment growth, despite the escalating demand and calls for more drivers.