13th December 2023

In Berkshire, the Transportation & Logistics sector isn't actually showing growth, with just 1,600 more job spots by 2035. But here's the twist: around 10,800 people are expected to retire or move on between 2020 and 2035. That means the county will be looking at a total of 12,400 openings that need filling! In addition, the whole industry is getting an automation makeover so they need workers who can understand and utilise the tech.

Job listings hugely increased in 2021 and early 2022 and are still higher than before the pandemic. The big demand is for roles like Freight Drivers, Vehicle Mechanics, and Warehouse Workers, but not enough people are coming into these jobs compared to five years ago. So, we're looking at a potential shortage.

Now, hop over to Oxfordshire, where the Transportation & Storage scene is actually growing! The sector grew by 29%, adding 1,300 new jobs in Freight Transport by Road (up by 36%), Warehousing & Storage (up by 29%), and Other Postal & Courier Activities (up by an enormous 164%). There’s also the same demand from employers to fill posts as people retire.
As of early 2022, there are 1,110 companies in 'Transportation & Logistics' in Oxfordshire – that's a 29% boost since early 2017. The big winner in the growth game is the crew handling Postal & Courier Activities, spiking up by a whopping 192%!

SKILLS NEEDED ACROSS THE SECTOR

So both counties are on the lookout for people to fill some important roles such as warehouse operators, custom clearing agents, and those awesome facilitators who make sure products get around the country efficiently.
But here's the twist – these employers are all about the digital world. They want workers who know their way around digital tech, who can handle basic Excel, and are up for some management and leadership training. Yes, they're not just looking for workers; they want the future leaders too!

CURRENT COURSES

There are no specific college or university courses offered in the counties, but a variety of qualifications can be gained mainly through assessment in the workplace and/or part-time study, including the Level 2 and 3 Certificates in logistics operations. 

Apprenticeships can provide an entry route and offer structured training in the workplace:
•    Level 2 for supply chain operators (managing movement of goods)
•    Level 3 for international freight forwarding specialists, with pathways in air, ocean or road freight, or for supply chain practitioners (fast-moving consumer goods)
•    Level 6 (Degree Apprenticeship) for supply chain leadership professionals or for express delivery managers.
•    Refer to www.ucas.com for Logistics and Supply Chain degrees in other parts of the country.

FUTURE PLANS 

The LSIP is focused on making education and training top-notch in crucial areas. They're using funds like the Adult Education Budget and the Innovation Fund, along with new employer money. Picture short courses, Skills Bootcamps, Apprenticeships, T Levels, and High Technical Qualifications (HTQs). They're also improving existing courses.

Major employers will also be joining forces with The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. They're growing the Generation Logistics Ambassador Network where employees will share their stories, shout about logistics careers on social media, and connect sponsors with schools. The goal? Guide the next wave of logistics superstars!

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