Haulier shortage hits Haribo
Kids and grown ups love them so – but the happy world of Haribo may not be so happy these days. Supplies of Haribo are being hit by the haulier shortage, according to reports.
Marks & Spencer, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Co-op Food have urged the government to take action over the dramatic impact the driver shortage is said to be having on deliveries. High numbers of companies across the food industry detailed to the government the strain that supply chains are under.
The German confectionery business, responsible for Starmix, Gummy Bears, Tangfastics and numerous other varieties, has said their business has been hit by the same problem.
In a statement, the company said: “As is the case with many manufacturers and retailers throughout the country, we are experiencing challenges with regards to the nationwide driver shortage. We are working with partners across the food and drink industry to address and respond to this problem.”
Retailers and suppliers are struggling to find enough haulage drivers in the UK, with experts warning a “perfect storm” is brewing due to several factors hitting the sector.
As reported last week by NR, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) believes there is currently a shortfall of about 60,000 drivers due to around 30,000 HGV driving tests not taking place last year due to the pandemic. Typically, 72,000 candidates train to become HGV drivers, with 40,000 passing. But only 15,000 were able to complete training last year, the organisation said.
The RHA has written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, warning many drivers also returned to their country of origin during extended periods of lockdown and restricted travel, with the vast majority not returning.
Brexit is also playing a part in the shortage, according to the RHA, with many drivers unsure of their rights to work in the UK.
