Van sector needs leadership and professionalism

12th October 2015

The FTA has launched its Van Excellence Report 2015/16 with the message that strong leadership and professionalism are key to improving the image of the sector.

The Freight Transport Association has launched its Van Excellence Report 2015/16 with the message that strong leadership and professionalism are key to improving the image of the sector.

Van use is expected to almost double by 2040 compared to 2010.  Currently 50% of vans in the UK are operated by sole traders and the biggest single use is in postal and parcels.  The FTA is keen to help operators shake off the ‘white van man’ image and highlight the value of the industry.

Speaking at the launch of the report, FTA Director of Policy Karen Dee said that, while it is true most freight is still moved by HGVs, the Van-Dependency Index confirms the importance of light goods vehicles.  In specialised construction trades, for example, the index (calculated as the number of vans per £1m gross value added) is 15.9, while in the postal/courier sector it is 28.7.

“Van Excellence has been embraced by the industry as a valuable initiative to enhance standards of compliance and celebrate those who demonstrate excellence,” the FTA’s Head of Vans Mark Cartwright said.  “The Van Excellence Report reinforces this message, recording achievements so far and highlighting the economic and social value of van fleets which are indispensable to the UK economy.”

The Association developed its Van Excellence scheme to enable van-operating members to demonstrate industry compliance and allow them to share good practice in order to raise standards.  The scheme was launched in 2010 and now has more than 100 members including Mercedes-Benz.

It is open to van operators of all sizes and business sectors, including non-FTA members.  Courses offered include the Certificate of Excellence for Van Operators and the new FTA Van Excellence Certificate of Driver Competence, which has an option for driver qualification.