Research from recruitment site Indeed Flex has shown that there is a nationwide last-mile delivery driver shortage due to thousands of drivers returning to their previous jobs as the economy strengthens.
The Indeed Flex research showed that the number of temporary delivery drivers available for work in June fell by 28.8% on the level of availability in March this year. The company claims that many drivers have started taking up shifts in hospitality and retail.
Indeed Flex chief executive Jack Beaman said, “The logistics sector stepped up admirably last year, keeping millions of locked-down Britons supplied with food and essentials.
“The surging demand for delivery drivers also proved a lifeline for many people whose jobs in hospitality, tourism or high street retail came to an abrupt end.
“Now, as lockdown restrictions ease, many of the temporary delivery drivers who kept Britain moving in its time of need are boomeranging back to their old jobs.
“The trend is happening at the worst possible time for logistics businesses, who are simultaneously grappling with the post-Brexit shortage of drivers and a ‘pingdemic’ which is forcing many staff to stay off work to isolate at home.
“The news is better for those looking for temporary work as a driver. They’re in the driving seat like never before – as flexible workers with an in-demand skill, they can pick and choose the shifts that suit them best,” said Beaman.