The campaign’s second year will now focus on raising the profile of logistics in schools and colleges by supporting educators with resources and materials.
The first year of the campaign focused on raising awareness and improving perceptions of the logistics sector. To date, the campaign has seen just under 2.9 million engagements with social media posts and 521,000 visits to its online hub. Other notable successes include the creation of Ambassadors Network with more than 280 logistics professionals working to inform and inspire new talent through events and engagements.
The campaign is part of the government’s Future of Freight plan, setting a strategy for the government and industry to work more closely together to deliver a “seamless flow of freight across the UK’s roads, railways, seas, skies and canals”.
Announcing the funding at the Road Transport Expo, Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “The first year of government funding has had a positive impact, showcasing the diversity of career opportunities in this vital sector. That is why we are pleased to announce additional year 2 funding to further build resilience in the sector.
“We continue to work closely with industry leaders, like CILT (UK) and Logistics UK, to fully understand the needs of the industry and this is yet another step we are taking to grow the economy and support industry across the UK".
In total, DfT has invested £645,000 (£345,000 in year 1, £300,000 in year 2) in the Generation Logistics initiative. As in year 1, DfT’s year 2 investment will be supplemented by industry sponsorship from leading companies and trade associations.
Phil Roe, Executive Sponsor, Generation Logistics, said: “At what is a critical time for the sector, DfT’s investment lays the foundations for the campaign to push Generation Logistics into its second year.
“This government support, alongside industry backing, will provide the platform for the industry to raise awareness of the diverse and fulfilling roles within the sector and identify the next generation of logistics professionals.”
Sally Gilson, RHA Policy Lead Skills and Drivers, said: “We welcome the Government’s investment in Generation Logistics to help bring new people into our industry.
“Logistics is a vital cog in our economy which enables other sectors to thrive, and offers exciting career paths for people from all skill sets.”
Forwarder group the British International Freight Association (BIFA) also welcomed the news of additional government funding for the Generation Logistics campaign.
Director General, Steve Parker says that the trade association will continue to be a supporting partner of Generation Logistics. “The work being done by Generation Logistics complements much of what BIFA is doing to identify and attract the next generation of logistics professionals into roles within our sector. From our Young Forwarder Network, and Freight Development Pathway, to our campaign to encourage our members to work with schools to promote careers in logistics, forwarding and the supply chain.
“National Logistics Day (June 28) is an occasion to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the logistics industry. Hopefully, the additional government funding for Generation Logistics is further evidence that Whitehall recognises the hard work of logistics professionals and, embracing innovation, we pave the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and interconnected future.”