Van use is expected to almost double by 2040 compared to 2010. Currently 50% of vans in the UK are operated by sole traders and the biggest single use is in postal and parcels.
The association said that although the majority of freight is still moved by HGVs, the Van-Dependency Index confirms the industry importance of light goods vehicles. In specialised construction trades, the index (calculated as the number of vans per £1m gross value added) is 15.9 while in postal and courier it is 28.73.
The FTA added that it is keen to help operators shake off the ‘white van man’ image and highlight the value of the industry. The Van Excellence scheme to enable van-operating members to demonstrate industry compliance and allow them to share good practice in order to raise standards. he scheme was launched in 2010 and now has more than 100 members including Hertz, BT Fleet and ATS Euromaster.
Mark Cartwright, FTA’s head of vans, said: “Van Excellence has been embraced by the industry as a valuable initiative to enhance standards of van operator compliance and celebrate those who demonstrate excellence.
“The Van Excellence report reinforces this message, recording achievements so far and highlighting the economic and social value of van fleets which are indispensable to the UK economy.”