Britons face Christmas havoc as thousands of drivers consider strike action - 'Critical crossroads'
Thousands of professional drivers could still strike ahead of Christmas
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Britons are being warned of Christmas chaos next month as new data shows that a majority of professional drivers across the UK are considering strike action.
Before the end of the year, 72 per cent of drivers are pondering strike action, a dramatic rise compared to the 61 per cent total last year.
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A new survey of more than 500 professional drivers found that almost half of people were frustrated about their pay not keeping up with the rising cost of living.
Other issues include 39 per cent of people concerned about their long hours, while 35 per cent of people identified poor working conditions as an issue.
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Professional drivers feel the Government does not value their jobs
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The research also found that 41 per cent of drivers said they would consider leaving their jobs if working conditions do not improve.
Experts are now warning that supply chains could be left in chaos if widescale strikes take place, potentially leaving gifts undelivered and supermarket shelves bare.
Philip van der Wilt, SVP and GM EMEA of Samsara, described this as a "pivotal moment" for fleet-based businesses as workers demand better conditions and pay.
He added: "With this apparent growing discontent among drivers, the logistics and transport sector stands at a critical crossroads and without meaningful change, the industry risks losing a significant portion of its essential staff.
"Improving working hours, workload management, and overall conditions for frontline workers is essential to maintaining a reliable workforce during this peak period."
Other issues noted by the survey included more than two-thirds of motorists agreeing that the UK is facing a "severe driver shortage".
Despite this, only one-third of professional drivers believe their roles are respected or valued by the Government.
Philip van der Wilt said technology could improve conditions by developing progress, although it could not fix all issues.
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The expert continued, saying: "By adopting technology that optimises routes, strengthens safety protocols, and offers more flexible scheduling, businesses can alleviate some of the pressures drivers face, ultimately benefiting both productivity and job satisfaction.
"This approach not only addresses the immediate concerns but also helps create a more sustainable and supportive environment for drivers in the future."
In October, more than £14million in joint Government and industry funding was invested to "boost innovation and working conditions" for HGVs.
Over £12million was given to help lorry drivers with their working conditions with better rest areas, more parking facilities and better security.
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The Government recently invested £12million to improve motorway service stations
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The upgrades will include 430 new lorry parking spaces to reduce congestion, more CCTV cameras at service stations, as well as better dining, changing and rest facilities.
Commenting on the investment, Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said: "Freight is a crucial engine of our economy and it is only right we do all we can to improve working conditions, pioneer innovation and drive sustainability across the industry.
"Our funding, combined with investment from the industry, will ensure lorry drivers can enjoy safer parking, a proper rest and a warm meal, while supporting UK businesses to harvest the best of technology to move freight faster, decarbonise our supply chain, and grow the economy for all."
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