Tomorrow (28 June) marks National Logistics Day – a day to celebrate all that is good about the logistics industry.
At iSB Group, we think there is a lot to celebrate… and a lot to look forward to.
Without a doubt, the past few years have been tough. We’ve had a global pandemic that placed untold stresses on the supply chain, followed swiftly by the UK’s exit from the EU and Russia’s shock invasion of Ukraine. Heightened trading conditions, changing trade processes, global energy price shocks, and an ongoing need to decarbonise have made things difficult – but recent statistics show the industry appears to have weathered the storm.
Logistics UK’s annual Logistics Report, published earlier this month, found logistics businesses added around £163 billion to the UK economy in 2021 and generated revenue of just over £1 trillion – a more than 19% increase on the previous year and matching pre-pandemic levels.
Despite another challenging year in 2022, the UK traded £414 billion exports and £644 billion imports, leading businesses surveyed to predict a consistent or improved outlook for 2023.
This is fantastic news, but no one is resting on their laurels.
UK logistics: 5 imperatives for 2023/4
In order to thrive into the future, UK logistics must remain resilient in the face of ongoing challenges while continuing to pivot operations in line with trends facing the sector.
Five key imperatives for the industry in 2023/4 are:
- To retain good people
- To consolidate operations
- To stay competitive
- To automate
- To become more sustainable
In the face of ongoing labour shortages, it will be more important than ever to retain good employees by providing competitive pay and good working conditions. Building a loyal workforce that gives its best will also help to attract new employees keen to work for a business that invests in their comfort and wellbeing.
Consolidation will continue to be important, with businesses needing to keep whole-life costs down while maintaining efficiency and ensuring value for money.
How to reduce the cost of safety footwear
Want to reduce workwear costs? Read our guide
Safety gloves costing too much? Here’s what to do
Any cost efficiencies achieved should be reinvested in new technologies such as real-time parcel tracking and automated warehouse picking in order to remain competitive and unlock further cost efficiencies down the track. At iSB Group, we hope some of this investment will be made in moving beyond basic safety provision, such as by opting to provide the likes of exoskeleton systems to reduce manual lifting injuries, or choosing to install defibrillators in the workplace.
Does my workplace need a defibrillator? Your questions answered
Finally, in an industry that relies on fuel and energy use to power its operations, there will be a need to explore all options when it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering carbon footprints. At iSB Group, we can help businesses to improve their environmental credentials through the workwear and PPE they supply to their teams. Read our blog to find out how switching to sustainable workwear and PPE could benefit your business.
iSB Group exists to support the logistics industry with everything it needs to create safer, happier workplaces. To find out more about how we support the sector, give our team a call.
About National Logistics Day
National Logistics Day originated in the USA in 2019 as a celebration of the important role logistics plays in supporting economic growth.
Today, it is increasingly being recognised elsewhere around the world – including in the UK – providing an opportunity for the industry to reflect on what it does well, and to celebrate the hardworking people that keep the profession moving day after day.
Posted 1 Feb 2024
