Transport operators continue to face driver retention concerns, new data has revealed.

Logistics Manager reports new research published as part of the Close Brothers Business Barometer for the last 12 months has highlighted the issue of driver retention as among the top issues to face the sector at present, with an average level of driver turnover in the UK of 20 per cent.

Overall, 31 per cent of respondents to the survey said they find it difficult to retain professional drivers after completing their training, while 25 per cent lamented an ongoing lack of suitably qualified drivers to fill key roles.

John Fawcett, managing director of the Transport Division at Close Brothers Asset Finance, commented: "It's clear from both the research and speaking to our customers that transport firms are facing a number of challenges that are impacting on their ability to attract and retain drivers."

He added that while levels of remuneration have been one of the biggest causes of driver mobility in the last year, recent studies have also shown that working arrangements that better meet the needs of busy individuals (like flexible working or a positive company culture) could be a great way to address issues of retention for firms in future.