Logistics UK

The official twitter feed for Logistics UK. We are the only organisation in the UK that represents all of logistics. #LeadingForLogistics

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Good to see our latest Logistics UK trade analysis featured in The @Independent today.

Britain’s trade intensity has slipped since 2019, and weaker trade means weaker productivity. Our analysis suggests getting back to 2019 levels could represent a long-run economic prize of around £11.7bn.

Fix the frictions, and we can help fix growth.

Full story: https://t.co/mxLr2hJSYu

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Press Release: Logistics ensures BBC Proms perform in perfect harmony

An orchestra at the peak of its powers is a demonstration of precision and expertise – but what many forget is the scale of planning that bring all the elements of the group to the stage. Now, the operation behind one of the UK’s most celebrated cultural events is having its moment in the spotlight, thanks to business group Logistics UK, as the BBC Proms run of 86 concerts over eight weeks throughout the summer gets into full flow.

This year’s Proms brings together 20 international ensembles, 41 orchestras and choirs from across the UK. It is a monumental effort, says Ben Fletcher, Chief Executive at Logistics UK, and a powerful reminder that major cultural moments depend on a highly skilled logistics network working seamlessly behind the scenes to make sure the show goes on:

“The BBC Proms is one of the standout events in the UK’s cultural calendar but the scale of the logistics operation behind it is often overlooked.

“It’s not just about perfect vibrato or world class soloists: from transporting delicate and valuable instruments to ensuring technical equipment, crews and performers are in exactly the right place at exactly the right time, every performance relies on precise logistical planning, just as complex and intricate as ensuring all elements of the orchestra are ready to perform at the same time when the conductor’s baton goes up.”

Official figures show last year’s events entertained nearly 300,000 attendees in person at the Royal Albert Hall and other venues across the UK, and six million tuned in digitally, a rise from 4.6 million in 2024. Mr Fletcher explains how this growing audience demonstrates the importance of the logistics sector in helping cultural events reach people in venues, homes and communities nationwide: “The Proms is an extraordinary example of what logistics makes possible,” he continued. “With performances across the UK, and artists travelling from both home and overseas, there are an enormous number of moving parts involved behind the scenes to deliver an ovation-worthy event.

“Our sector rises to that challenge every year, enabling the Proms to deliver world-class performances to hundreds of thousands of concertgoers and millions more watching and listening at home. Logistics is the hidden member of the orchestra that ensures that every performance is on song, every time.”

Among this year’s programme highlights is the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance of “Ariadne auf Naxos” at the Royal Albert Hall in London on 19 August. Roanna Gibson Concerts and Planning Director at the London Philharmonic Orchestra explains how months of planning will go into delivering a single performance.

“A two-hour performance at the Royal Albert Hall is the culmination of months of preparation and planning to ensure everything is perfect on the night,” she said.

“Between 12 to six months out from the performance, we will draw up a stage plan for the concert and begin working out the trucking schedule. We need to organise specialist transportation for particular instruments, such as the large percussion elements, so it is important to start planning in good time.

“Rehearsals are also critical and something that concertgoers on the night may not have considered. Closer to the performance, we will have arranged appropriate rehearsal spaces, and they also require specialist orchestral transport to ensure the instruments are moved and set up safely. As “Ariadne auf Naxos” is being performed at the Glyndebourne Festival in East Sussex throughout August, we also have the additional challenge of staging the same performance in two venues concurrently. This is a complex logistical challenge as intricate as the pieces we perform, and it is the expertise of the logistics specialists that make it possible for the orchestra to take to the stage in both venues.”

“The Last Night of the Proms is on 12 September and is famous for its pomp and circumstance, but behind every standing ovation is a complex logistics operation,” concluded Mr Fletcher. “Like the musicians, the logistics sector works in perfect harmony to deliver a major event programme throughout the concert series. The Proms are the perfect demonstration of how planning and execution can deliver a symphony of excellence for audiences, both on stage and behind the scenes.”

[John Cooper MP @JohnCooperDG]

🚛 The A75 is key to the UK economy and the transport spine of D&G, but it’s swamped by traffic volumes. 🚙 Dualling would be the gold standard but short-term improvements, and better facilities for drivers, could be delivered sooner.
I’m with @LogisticsUKNews calling for action.

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

“They’ll never take our freedom (of movement)” – high-vis kilts allow workers to embrace inner Braveheart.

With Scottish football fans making headlines off the pitch for all the right reasons during the World Cup, and the Commonwealth Games putting Glasgow firmly on the sporting map, this summer has been a time to take pride in celebrating Scotland’s national identity. And as temperatures continue to soar across the UK, Logistics UK Shop is enabling all logistics workers to stay cool and work safely while embracing their inner Braveheart.

Available for the first time this week, the latest addition to its popular workwear range is a high-vis kilt from renowned suppliers Blåkläder.

“Wherever our workers are located, we offer a wide range of workwear that helps them to work safely and yet retain their stylish and comfortable edge,” explains Tim Hyde Logistics UK Head of Retail Operations.

“For our Scottish members, and those who want to wear something distinctive while enjoying more freedom of movement while they work, our new kilts are a perfect choice. The kilts are classified as Class 2 high-vis items, unlike many shorts that are only Class 1, and are suitable for medium risk areas like lower-speed roads, small construction sites, warehouses and delivery yards.”

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report that 680,000 workers sustained a non-fatal injury at work in Great Britain in 2024/25, with transportation and storage and the wholesale and retail trade among the sectors with statistically significantly higher accidents rates than average across all industry1. Slips, trips and falls were the most common cause of non-fatal workplace injury, according to HSE, accounting for 30% of cases, followed by handling, lifting or carrying at 17% and being struck by a moving object at 10%.

“Official statistics show that 4.4 million working days were lost due to workplace non-fatal injuries in 2024/25,” continues Hyde. “Properly fitting, task-appropriate workwear is an essential part of helping workers move safely, remain visible and avoid avoidable hazards.”

The high-vis kilts are part of Logistics UK Shop’s Blåkläder range that also includes a non-high-vis Craftsman Kilt and, as part of its womenswear range, a workwear skirt.

“The range of women’s workwear we offer comprises clothes that are designed specifically for women as opposed to just smaller versions of a men’s range,” continues Hyde. “It is important that women have comfortable and properly fitting clothes so they can work safely and feel comfortable and confident in the workplace. The range we offer shows our commitment to working with the best suppliers and sourcing the best products, so our customers do not have to compromise on performance or fit – these kilts and skirts are another great example of this and bring more choice to workwear while ensuring comfort and safety.”

Click: https://t.co/O0LUxuZeOh to view the range.

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Logistics UK apprenticeship testimonial - Level 3 Transport Operations Supervisor apprenticeship.

Are you interested in developing your skills or the skills of your workforce? Learn more about the course James has completed and secure your place in the next cohort beginning at the end of August: https://t.co/hOe0IXWX7O

We are a specialist, government-approved apprenticeship provider, experts in the logistics industry. We can offer employers expert advice regarding apprenticeship funding and utilising the levy along with bespoke apprenticeship programmes that meet business needs.

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

News Release

Ben Fletcher, Chief Executive of business group Logistics UK, which represents the whole sector, commented today (20 July 2026) on Mr Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister, after Mr Burnham’s meeting with King Charles III:

“Congratulations to @andyburnham on his appointment as Prime Minister. Logistics UK looks forward to working closely with him and his government to deliver the economic and industrial growth the whole country needs, and ensure the logistics sector remains at the heart of a competitive and resilient UK economy.”

“’Manchesterism’ has been a great example of how an economy and city can thrive with a clear plan that puts transport at its heart. The UK’s logistics industry employs people in every constituency across the country. Our sector wants to work with the new Government to take the best of ‘Manchesterism’ and turbocharge its delivery, linking up every town and city in the UK, as well as helping enable over a trillion pounds of international trade.”

“Nothing moves without logistics and our sector will be vital to the UK’s reindustrialisation and growth plans. It underpins the economy, supporting businesses, homes and public services, employing 8% of the UK workforce and contributing £175 billion in GVA each year.”

“Our sector’s hubs and workforce are embedded in communities across the country, providing skilled jobs, rewarding careers and enabling businesses to trade, domestically and internationally. As the government continues its drive for industrial growth and devolution, logistics has a key role to play in ensuring investment translates into improved standards of living and opportunities in every region and nation of the UK.”

[LogisticsIT Magazine @LogisticsIT]

Transport Manager conferences back in 2026 after landmark anniversary year
https://t.co/uh9OdvRsdK @LogisticsUKNews #LeadingForLogistics #Logistics #Transport

[Bulk Distributor @BulkDistributor]

As the #summer get away begins, @LogisticsUKNews has reacted with disappointment at the ongoing reliance on #Operation #Brock.
https://t.co/S83Q7Uxpyg
#bulk #distributor #transport #logistics #traffic #jams #solution #motorway

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Notice received from @kent_police:

Please note that on Saturday 25 July an anti-immigration protest organised by right-wing groups is due to be held in Dover from around 1pm.

That day is already predicted to be a red day for traffic at the port with possibly the highest number of vehicles processed so far this year. Any disruption to local traffic caused by the protest could obviously exacerbate the issue.

For the avoidance of any doubt, Kent Police will lead on any messaging relating to the policing of the protest and Kent County Council will continue to lead on traffic-related communications.

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Apprentice of the Month – Alyssa Nicoll, Level 2 Transport Coordinator Apprentice, Ashcourt Group

Congratulations to Alyssa Nicoll from Ashcourt Group, our first ever Apprentice of the Month winner.

Since beginning her Level 2 Transport Coordinator apprenticeship, Alyssa has demonstrated exceptional commitment to her learning and development. She has embraced every opportunity to grow, consistently applying feedback, building her confidence, and making excellent progress both in her apprenticeship and within the workplace. Her enthusiasm, positive attitude, and dedication to achieving high standards have made a significant impression on both her tutor and employer.

Tutor Quote – Clare Yearsley
"Alyssa is storming ahead with her apprenticeship and appears to be loving the challenges set. She has taken onboard feedback from the initial components that have been marked, and this has led to a distinct improvement on subsequent submissions of evidence. Alyssa proactively reaches out for support as required and validates with her tutor as needed. The standard of evidence has improved, and Alyssa is starting to develop her confidence in written evidence and tasks. Alyssa is ahead with her apprenticeship, all components completed to date, and the majority for June have already been completed. OTJ hours recorded are also ahead of target. Alyssa is implementing her learning in the workplace, and her manager is more than happy with the progress that she has made. Whenever I engage with Alyssa, whether on a one-to-one basis, or in a group, she is engaged, happy to contribute and excited about the prospect of learning. It is a pleasure to have Alyssa as a cohort member.”

Line Manager/Mentor Quote – Niall Tilston, Concrete Operations Manager, Ashcourt Group
"Alyssa has had an excellent start to her apprenticeship and has already made a positive impact within the business. Since joining us, she has shown significant growth in her role, demonstrating great enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a genuine commitment to both her apprenticeship and the company. Throughout her apprenticeship, Alyssa has developed a range of key skills that are essential to her role, and this progress has greatly increased her confidence in the workplace. She approaches new challenges with a positive attitude, is eager to learn, and consistently applies herself to a high standard. We are incredibly proud of Alyssa's achievements so far and believe she is highly deserving of recognition. We look forward to supporting her continued development and seeing her grow even further as she progresses through her apprenticeship.”

Well done, Alyssa – a fantastic achievement and thoroughly deserved recognition.

Our Level 2 Transport Coordinator Apprenticeship operates on a roll-on, roll-off basis, meaning learners can start throughout the year rather than waiting for a fixed intake date. Learn more about our courses here: https://t.co/XrX9PBlMkz

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Our ever-popular Transport Manager Conference Series returns this autumn, delivering best-in-class compliance guidance, industry insights and practical advice for Transport Managers and fleet professionals.

Running from September through to December, the series brings together experts from across the sector to help you stay informed, compliant and ahead of the latest regulatory and operational developments.

2026 Conference Dates
📍 Yeovil – Haynes Motor Museum | 17 September
📍 Newcastle – Slaley Hall Hotel & Spa | 24 September
📍 Belfast – Culloden Estate & Spa | 30 September
📍 Falkirk – Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa | 8 October
📍 Doncaster – Doncaster Racecourse | 15 October
📍 Manchester – AJ Bell Stadium | 20 October
📍 Peterborough – Holiday Inn Peterborough West | 5 November
📍 London – Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel | 12 November
💻 Virtual Conference | 20 November
📍 Cardiff – All Nations Centre | 26 November
📍 Birmingham – National Motorcycle Museum | 3 December

Join fellow transport and fleet professionals for a day of expert-led sessions, practical updates and valuable networking opportunities at a location near you.

Book your place today and ensure you're ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead: https://t.co/sA0hELXPQl

[CVW Magazine @cvwmagazine]

.@LogisticsUKNews has revealed entrants now have an additional two weeks to submit their nominations for the tenth annual Logistics Awards

https://t.co/FK3e5izCE9

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Maritime Safety Week weighs anchor this week (6-10 July), and Logistics UK is celebrating the vital role of the sector to the UK’s economy.

As an island nation, the maritime supply chain is critical for the UK’s global competitiveness and 90% of everything we buy arrives at our shores by sea. There is also capacity for more goods to be moved by coastal shipping and inland waterways and with coordinated action across government, industry and infrastructure providers, waterborne freight can become a core component of modern multimodal logistics.

A strong, shared safety culture is essential for the sector to thrive and to protect the logistics workers that keep goods moving, and this year’s theme “Every day, everyone: Making maritime safety routine” is a reminder that safety is not driven by rules alone, but by shared responsibility, consistent behaviours and learning from one another.

#MaritimeSafetyWeek #MaritimeSafetyMatters

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Knowing your State Pension age helps you plan for the future.

Check today using your date of birth: https://t.co/WNQD97QWP6

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Deadline Extended: Enter the 2026 Logistics UK Logistics Awards by 5pm on Friday 17 July!

Due to popular demand and a high volume of enquiries, we've extended the entry deadline for the 2026 Logistics UK Logistics Awards.

Entry is completely free, and you can submit entries for as many categories as you like. This is your opportunity to showcase how you, your team or your organisation have demonstrated industry leadership, innovation and excellence over the past year.

Don't miss your chance to be recognised among the very best in UK logistics.

Find out more and submit your entry today: https://t.co/ZQTkNKe0rZ

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

A note from Chief Executive, Ben Fletcher.

Welcome to the final edition of Logistics Magazine (https://t.co/36ElEcZdvD)

As outlined in last week’s issue, members have been saying for some time that in a fast-moving world they sometimes miss key pieces of information from us and we are consolidating our communication to make things easier.

By switching to a single weekly communication – eNews – we will ensure that you are kept up to date with the latest regulatory, policy and industry information all in one place, while providing opportunities for you to engage with the work that we do and help to shape our policy positions swiftly and efficiently.

Logistics Magazine has come a long way since the monthly printed magazine, which was mailed out to members and, in some cases, stored in binders on shelves across the country. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all our contributors and editors, including, most recently, Matt Harrington (whose potted history of the magazine you can read in this week’s 'And Finally' section), Stuart Messham and Tim Southwell, who have pulled together issues that have kept our members up to date with all the latest industry news and insights.

Our website – https://t.co/LUc9hsnVua – will continue to provide a back catalogue of features and news that you can refer to as required.

Please keep reading eNews for all the latest information you need, when you need it. It is distributed every Wednesday and is free for members.

To be added to the mailing list please contact [email protected]

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

@deptinfra @LizKimminsSF Thank you for meeting with us!

[Department for Infrastructure @deptinfra]

Minister Liz Kimmins has met with Logistics UK to discuss how we can work together on issues around infrastructure as well as the logistics and haulage sector across the North.

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Are you looking to level up your logistics career - or strengthen the skills within your team?

Apprenticeships from Logistics UK might just be the 'cheat code' you’ve been searching for.

As a government‑approved specialist apprenticeship provider, Logistics UK delivers programmes built specifically for the logistics and transport sector. Whether you're an employer looking to grow talent or an individual ready to accelerate your career, these apprenticeships offer a powerful pathway forward.

Why choose Logistics UK apprenticeships?
+ Industry‑focused training. Designed by logistics experts for real‑world impact.
+ Employer support. Guidance on funding, levy use, and a free recruitment service.
+ Inclusive learning. Ofsted praised their tailored support for apprentices with additional needs.
+ Flexible delivery. Programmes shaped around business requirements.
+ Proven results. Thousands of training hours delivered every year.

Featured programmes now enrolling:
Level 2 Transport Coordinator
Level 3 Heavy Vehicle Service & Maintenance Technician
Level 3 Team Leader for Logistics & Transport
Level 3 Transport Operations Supervisor
Level 5 Operations Manager

Whether you're building future leaders or stepping into your next chapter, these programmes are built to unlock potential at every level: https://t.co/XrX9PBlMkz

[Logistics UK @LogisticsUKNews]

Entries are now officially open for Logistics UK’s 10th annual Logistics Awards, the industry’s flagship celebration of innovation, dedication and outstanding performance.

With categories spanning road, rail, sea and air, this is the moment for organisations and individuals across the sector to shine.

Why enter?
+ Recognise the achievements of your team
+ Celebrate innovation and leadership across the supply chain
+ Gain national visibility at a prestigious gala event
+ Be judged by respected experts from across the logistics industry

Key details
+ Entry deadline: 5pm, 3 July 2026
+ Awards ceremony: 10 December 2026, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London
+ Free to enter
+ Early bird prices for tables now available

Submit your entry here: https://t.co/ZQTkNKe0rZ

If you or your organisation have delivered something exceptional this year, now is the time to tell your story. Let’s celebrate the people and businesses driving logistics forward.

Enter today: https://t.co/ZQTkNKe0rZ