Two-thirds (60%) of UK van drivers are working longer hours as continuing cost pressures contribute to a bleak economic outlook for many, according to a study by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles*.
The survey of 1,000 UK van drivers revealed that 68% are feeling no more optimistic about the outlook for their business than they did last year, with the rising cost of materials among the greatest challenges*.
An increase in working hours means that UK van drivers are now averaging 9 hours and 10 minutes of work per day* – up from 8 hours 34 minutes reported in February 2023** – with 2 in 5 working over 10 hours per day*. This represents a 7% increase in the average working day, year on year.
This comes at a time when, despite the inflation rate falling to 4.2% in January 2024, UK van drivers are still concerned about the high cost of materials and those associated with the day-to-day running of their business. For example, ready-mixed concrete and flexible pipes and fittings are up 14.6% and 23.8% respectively since last year, putting further pressure on the construction industry***.
Craig Cavanagh, National Fleet Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “Faced with longer hours and concerns around the rising cost of materials, it’s easy to understand the pressure UK van drivers are feeling around the day-to-day running of their businesses. As part of our ‘Working With You’ commitment, we’re supporting those feeling this added pressure, to keep their businesses moving and running costs to a minimum.”
*Results are taken from a OnePoll survey of 1,000 van drivers in the UK, conducted in December 2023, commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
**Results are taken from a OnePoll survey of 1,000 van drivers in the UK, conducted in February 2023, commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
***Department for Business & Trade – Monthly Bulletin of Building Materials and Components.
