Modern tradespeople drink herbal tea, do yoga and worry about the environment, new myth-busting research finds.
Dismantling the ‘white van man’ stereotype and images of dirty vans and unhealthy habits, analysis by Isuzu UK found that tradespeople embrace fitness, mindfulness and sustainability.
Over half (56%) of the 2,000 tradies surveyed say they enjoy mindful activities, such as yoga, while 41% admit they prefer cricket to football.
A similar figure – 43% – care about the planet enough to recycle, while 62 percent say that tradespeople are more likely to drive an EV vehicle now than a ‘classic white van’ because of their concerns about the planet.
More than a third (36%) describe themselves as an avid reader while three-quarters (76%) pride themselves on always keeping their van clean and tidy.
More than one in five (22%) have a nightly skincare routine and 19% drink herbal tea instead of the stereotypical milk and two sugars.
Three-quarters (74%) of modern tradespeople would rather have something healthy like a salad or wrap than a pie or pasty, while 10% even meditate.
Wolf whistling out of the window (43%), saucy images stuck to the inside of the van (41%), empty junk food pockets cluttering up the footwell (39%) and cigarette butts dotted around the vehicle (35%) are all considered the most outdated stereotypes, along with fluffy dice hanging from the rearview mirror (34%) and empty energy drink cans (28%) on the floor.
Isuzu UK said the research shows the new generation of drivers are focused on challenging perceptions and proving that being a skilled tradesperson is about much more than just the job – it’s a way of life.
George Wallis, head of marketing at Isuzu UK, explained: “It’s clear from the research that there is a new generation of tradespeople in the UK and they are not afraid to challenge people when they question it.
“It’s also fascinating to see that vans are becoming a beacon of change for the industry with many keeping them spotless and turning their backs on the traditional fuel-powered vehicles in favour of electric so that they align with their environmental beliefs. Modern tradesmen can get the job done whilst making a positive difference for the environment.”
The research also found that 79% of Brits agree that stereotypes are old fashioned and outdated, with 93% saying that amassing a list of good tradesmen is vital in life.
MODERN BRITISH TRADESPEOPLE
- Likes to keep fit – 44%
- Recycles – 43%
- Loves reading – 36%
- Cares about the environment – 36%
- Sticks to the speed limit – 33%
- Listens to podcasts – 29%
- Always arrives early – 29%
- Has a degree – 29%
- Has a skincare routine – 22%
- Listens to Radio 2 – 20%
- Has a beard trimmer – 20%
- Drinks herbal tea – 19%
- Likes designer clothes – 18%
- Listens to audiobooks – 16%
- Does yoga – 14%
- Practices mindfulness – 13%
- On the socials – 13%
- Loves interior design – 12%
- Drives an electric vehicle – 11%
- Meditates – 10%
