During National Apprenticeship Week in February, we attended Parliament to raise the profile of the logistics industry. Our visit intended to help us to compete with what are deemed to be more glamourous environments in a bid to make a career in logistics a conscious choice.
Premier Logistics took a momentous journey to the heart of British democracy – the UK Houses of Parliament. We sent our team to the London landmark, who are leading advocates for the logistics sector and attracting talent into it.
We accompanied representatives from Generation Logistics, an initiative to find and engage the next generation of logistics professionals by showcasing the huge diversity of career prospects in the industry.
The visit marked a pivotal moment in the industry’s ongoing efforts to establish itself as a crucial player in the national economy.
Generation Logistics and National Apprenticeship Week
Timed strategically around National Apprenticeship Week, we joined forces with Generation Logistics during the Parliament visit. This collaboration aimed to elevate the industry’s profile and position logistics and supply chain management as a viable career choice. By showcasing the diverse and rewarding opportunities within the sector, the goal is to make a career in logistics a conscious choice rather than a profession that individuals merely stumble upon and fall into.
Shifting perceptions
It was reassuring to hear MPs recognising the challenges of the industry and talking about how we make it more appealing. The logistics industry often battles stereotypes of being mundane or lacking glamour compared to other sectors. However, the discussions in Parliament demonstrated a concerted effort by MPs to change these perceptions. By addressing the challenges of the industry and actively seeking ways to make it more appealing, there is a genuine commitment to attracting new talent and fostering a workforce that is well-equipped for the demands of the future.
Lobbying for a dedicated Minister
At the forefront of our agenda was the call for a dedicated logistics and supply chain minister. The recent visit to Parliament provided a unique opportunity to witness first-hand how politicians perceive and prioritise our industry. It is an ambitious move that signifies the pressing need for a focused approach towards the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that logistics and supply chain management present.
Acknowledging the challenges
As discussions unfolded within the hallowed halls of Parliament, it became evident that politicians are increasingly recognising the challenges that the logistics industry faces. From infrastructure bottlenecks to the complex web of regulations, MPs acknowledged the intricacies of the sector and engaged in conversations about crafting solutions. This recognition is a positive sign, signalling the government’s commitment to working collaboratively with industry leaders to overcome hurdles and foster growth.
Small steps towards standards and regulation
While there is still a considerable distance to cover, the visit to Parliament marked the initiation of small but significant steps towards establishing industry standards and regulations for best practices. This is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Premier Logistics, Generation Logistics and policymakers in shaping a more robust and sustainable future for the logistics and supply chain sector.
Conclusion
Our visit to Parliament, especially during National Apprenticeship Week, serves as a significant milestone in the journey towards industry recognition and creating solutions to the challenges in attracting new talent to the sector.
As the dialogue between industry leaders and policymakers gains momentum, the logistics and supply chain sector inches closer to a future where it is not only acknowledged for its challenges but celebrated for its contributions to the national economy.
It is through collaborative efforts and advocacy that the logistics industry can continue to evolve, making strides towards a more sustainable and appealing career landscape.
