A leading logistics training provider has warned that the UK could face a severe shortage of heavy goods vehicle drivers, potentially threatening business operations and supply chains across the country. The alert comes after the end of government-funded HGV training programmes, which had previously helped maintain a steady pipeline of new drivers entering the workforce.
Insite, a major training partner for the logistics sector, says the loss of central funding for Skills Bootcamps in HGV driving has significantly reduced access to affordable training. These programmes had been introduced after the 2021 driver shortage crisis, which caused widespread delivery disruption and empty shelves in some areas. Their removal is now creating a renewed gap in driver supply.
Industry estimates suggest the UK needs around 60,000 new HGV drivers each year to meet demand. However, without consistent training pathways, businesses are struggling to recruit enough qualified staff. Insite reports that hundreds of companies have raised concerns about driver availability, with fears that the situation could surpass the scale of the previous crisis.
The earlier bootcamp scheme had proven effective, training thousands of drivers and placing a large majority directly into jobs. Since funding ended, that flow of new entrants has slowed, leaving employers increasingly exposed to labour shortages.
The warning highlights broader structural challenges in the sector, including an ageing workforce, retention issues, and inconsistent training provision. These factors are combining to create what industry leaders describe as a potentially “catastrophic” situation for logistics and distribution.
Overall, the report suggests that without renewed investment in training and workforce development, the UK risks facing significant disruption to supply chains, with knock-on effects for retailers, manufacturers, and the wider economy.