Announced at the Van Fleet Summit by the Freight Transport Association (FTA), the report outlines the importance of the UK van market which is the fastest growing in the automotive sector with 3.4 million vehicles. The document highlights the importance of the role of the van stating that it is ‘a versatile tool for modern business,’ used by local authorities, utilities companies, infrastructure and facilities maintenance, engineers and delivery firms. However, it also identifies the operational challenges and the need to improve the public image of the van sector.
Commenting on the Review, FTA’s head of vans, Mark Cartwright, said: ‘FTA Van Excellence would like to issue a challenge, an invitation and a call to action to anyone associated with the van sector. Vans underpin the economic activity of the UK. In this report we have identified the many challenges with affect van operators and the various solutions which are possible.
‘We feel passionately about taking action to professionalise the UK van parc, empowering the inspiring all to raise standards, improve safety and encourage the commercial success of UK plc. Professionalising the industry will bring benefits to both society and industry.'
Since its launch in 2010 the Van Excellence programme has attracted a determined and dedicated membership of professional fleet operators and loyal suppliers determined to raise standards, but the FTA believes there is still work to be done.
‘Thanks to the growth of e-retail and home delivery, the importance of the van has grown even further, with major retailers, who once focused on HGV fleets delivering to distribution centres and stores, now having, national van fleets as well. Over the years the van has become a huge part of everything we do – whether we are in business, buying things via the internet or simply going about our everyday lives. Van Excellence members already recognise the importance of excellence in their operations, but it is now time for all in the sector to join forces and help professionalise this growing industry,’ added Carwright.