Birmingham, UK: The Logistics Report 2012, reviewing the state of the logistics sector over the past 12 months, will be launched at the Commercial Vehicle Show today.
The annual report brings together research and analysis from the Freight Transport Association and PwC, and will be launched by FTA’s chief executive Theo de Pencier.
The report focuses on the challenges, successes and progress within the logistics sector over the past year. It includes a logistics dashboard, bringing together more than 50 indicators giving different perspectives on the industry and the performance of the wider economy.
The report is split into five sections, the main areas of focus are: economy; political; safety and the environment; image and reputation; and emerging risks and opportunities. With a prolonged downturn in the economy, the report reflects on difficulties felt in 2011 as well as discussing the challenges ahead and strategies for growth.
In a difficult period and with increased costs, the industry has continued to deliver high standards, contributed to reducing emissions and worked towards creating a safer environment. With the weak economy an enormous issue for the industry, the price of fuel also continued to cause problems.
“The Chancellor failed to grasp the benefits that a fuel duty cut could have delivered. Talking about growth is not enough – lowering fuel duty would boost the economy and generate jobs,” said de Pencier, in a statement issued ahead of the launch.
“The truth is that during the worst economic conditions for generations, at a time of minimal growth and ever increasing and understandable customer pressure, our industry has risen to the challenge and is succeeding in delivering the goods with increased efficiency and at lower costs. ,” he said.
“The Logistics Report 2012 reflects on how we have gone about dealing with these challenges during the last year.” Coolin Desai, UK Transport & Logistics Industry Leader for PwC, said: “The report evidences how the industry continues to respond in a challenging climate. Rising fuel costs coupled with tepid growth has put pressure on margins, despite which logistics firms continue to innovate.
“Looking ahead, the challenge will be for government and industry to work together to ensure the UK is a leading place to develop successful logistics businesses. Investments in critical transport infrastructure and in developing a skilled workforce are imperative for international competitiveness and facilitating economic growth.”
The report also looks to the future. Demonstrating the importance of the industry remains a top priority for 2012 as well as fuel duty and facilitating the biggest event of the year – the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
