Tackling the Driver Shortage: How Training and Investment Can Help Fill the Gap

The logistics industry has been grappling with a driver shortage for years, and the challenge isn’t going away anytime soon. With an ageing workforce, fewer young people entering the profession, and the rising costs of training, it’s becoming harder for businesses to find and retain skilled drivers.

At Walkers Transport, we know that simply recruiting more people isn’t the answer. The real solution lies in training, developing, and supporting drivers while ensuring they have access to high-quality equipment and excellent working conditions. That’s why we’ve made it our priority to invest in our drivers from day one, ensuring they have the skills, confidence, and career progression they need to stay in the industry for the long term.

Developing Talent Through Training

One of the biggest barriers to entry in the logistics industry is training. That’s why, more than seven years ago, we opened our Driver Training School to provide structured learning and career development.

Through initiatives like our Warehouse to Wheels apprenticeship scheme, we help aspiring drivers progress from warehouse roles into driving careers, supporting them through licensing and training to ensure a smooth transition.

Finding the Right People

Recruiting drivers starts with more than just scanning CVs—we look for the right mindset, reliability, and a willingness to learn. Once we’ve identified a potential candidate, we take them through a thorough interview, giving them full transparency about the role, the challenges, and what they can expect from working with us.

If they seem like a good fit, we invite them for an assessment to see how they handle the job in real time. This hands-on approach helps us ensure they’re ready for the road and comfortable with the demands of the role before making any commitments.

Setting Drivers Up for Success

Joining a new company can be daunting, so we make sure our drivers feel supported from day one. Every new recruit goes through an induction to introduce them to the Walkers way of working, from safety procedures to customer expectations. But training doesn’t stop there—each new driver is buddied up with an experienced team member who helps them settle in and get to grips with the job.

Throughout the probation period, we stay in close contact to check in, answer questions, and provide any extra training they might need. Our leadership team is also highly visible each morning, making sure every driver feels like a valued part of the team.

High-Quality Equipment and Facilities

We understand that drivers can only perform at their best when they have access to reliable, well-maintained vehicles and excellent working conditions. That’s why we:

• Regularly test our vehicles and consult with drivers on what they need to make their job easier and more comfortable.
• Maintain high site standards, ensuring our facilities meet the needs of our team.
• Operate our own workshop, keeping our fleet in top condition so that drivers can focus on their job without concerns about vehicle reliability.

Upskilling and Career Progression

One of the best ways to tackle the driver shortage is by investing in the people we already have. At Walkers, we believe in helping drivers progress in their careers, which is why we’ve developed a structured training academy.

We help drivers move up the ranks, from van drivers to Class 2, and from Class 2 to Class 1. Once a driver passes their test, we don’t just send them off on their own—we spend four days training them to refine their skills, build confidence, and ensure they’re fully prepared.

John Burbeck, our Leeds Driver Trainer, explains:

"Training doesn’t stop once a driver gets their licence. We make sure they get the right support and coaching in those crucial early days so they can drive with confidence. It’s not just about passing a test—it’s about becoming a safe, skilled, and capable driver for the long haul."

When needed, we also provide ADR courses to qualify drivers for transporting hazardous goods, and all CPC training is done in-house, keeping our team up to date with regulations and best practices.

Building a Stronger Workforce

At Walkers Transport, we’re committed to not just filling vacancies but creating a workplace where drivers feel valued, supported, and able to grow. By investing in training, career progression, high-quality equipment, and excellent site facilities, we’re building a skilled, committed workforce for the future of logistics.

If you’re looking for a rewarding driving career with real opportunities to grow, Walkers Transport is the place to be. Get in touch with us today to find out more.