As the UK gears up for the Christmas period, new research from Samsara reveals that a staggering 72% of professional drivers may consider strike action before the end of the year. This marks a significant rise of over 10 percentage points from 2023, when 61% reported similar sentiments — potentially highlighting the industry’s growing discontent.
Samsara’s latest survey, conducted with 500 professional UK drivers, paints a troubling picture for the transport and logistics sector. With consumer demand expected to soar during the holiday season, this unrest could have a serious impact on supply chains, threatening the timely delivery of essential goods, groceries, and Christmas gifts nationwide.
The research delves into the root causes of this frustration within the workforce, uncovering top concerns for drivers, which include:
- Pay not keeping up with the rising cost of living (47%)
- Long hours (39%)
- Poor working conditions (35%)
As many as 41% of drivers said they would consider leaving their jobs if conditions do not improve.
The survey also highlights a more systemic issue — 69% of drivers agree that the UK is facing a severe driver shortage, yet only 34% feel their roles are respected or valued by the government.
Philip van der Wilt, SVP and GM EMEA of Samsara: “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. This is a pivotal moment for fleet-based businesses to consider innovative ways to support their drivers.
“While technology can’t solve every challenge in the industry, it plays a vital role in moving us forward. 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.”
