FTA has announced the launch of a dedicated Van Policy Working Group, which will discuss the key policy compliance issues facing van drivers.
The group, comprised of 41 leaders within the sector, will seek to ignite change within the sector.
Elizabeth de Jong, Director of UK Policy at FTA, commented: “As the number of vans on the UK’s roads continues to soar, it is vital the interests of individuals and businesses operating these vehicles are represented with stakeholders and government. The creation of a Van Policy Working Group reinforces FTA’s commitment to the market. As logistics needs change, and vans become increasingly important to UK PLC, this will mean FTA is perfectly placed to lead this sector forwards to even greater success.
“The new Van Policy Working Group represents just one initiative in FTA’s rich programme of activity. And with many new projects in the pipeline, including the development of a specialist emission zone advice service, FTA has positioned itself at the forefront of this burgeoning sector.”
FTA’s existing van programme includes Operational Briefings, held across the country to boost knowledge and expertise across van operators, as well as the Van Driver of the Year award.
Elizabeth continued: “Over the past 12 months, the number of van drivers in the UK has increased by more than 12% and together, they cover 51 billion miles a year. With this growth comes the need to evaluate current safety, compliance and efficiency standards and drive improvements wherever necessary.
“The Van Policy Working Group provide a vital mouthpiece for the industry with government, regulators and other stakeholders and provide a platform to communicate and debate the issues the market is facing. Van drivers and operators provide a vital service to the UK economy; their contributions must be valued and their concerns and hopes for the future heard and acted upon.”
