WR Logistics has advised that logistics firms will need to make innovative talent strategies a priority going into the new decade. The company say this will be necessary to meet challenges such as digitalisation, automation, and the post-Brexit talent landscape.
With many firms automating large swathes of their workforce, demand for technically capable talent is increasing. However, this is coinciding with a lack of interest in the sector from young workers, the talent pool where these skills are most commonly found.
In addition to this, Brexit uncertainty has introduced further challenges. With the sector relying on large numbers of employees from Europe, companies could face difficulty without a talent pipeline that can function in spite of limited EU workers.
“As we settle into 2020, logistics firms are facing challenges that make innovative talent strategies a necessity,” said Tom Nichols, divisional manager at WR Logistics. “With only eight per cent of people between 11-20 years old considering logistics as a career option – companies may struggle to attract the technical expertise needed to cope with digitalisation.
“To combat this, industry figures need to get in front of young audiences to talk about the benefits of working in logistics. Careers advice will also need to be improved, and students should be given exposure to the industry at key decision making stages,” he added. “In addition to this, the post-Brexit landscape will necessitate that companies retain a steady pipeline of talent. One particular area that may see a sustained increase in demand is talent with customs experience. Our data has already shown a 183 per cent rise in demand since last year.”
