Improving Economy Driving Need for Forklift Operators

A slowly improving British economy has helped a number of business sectors achieve moderate growth since the start of the year. The logistics sector is but one example. As conditions improve around the UK, the logistics industry is in the position of taking more work in order to move freight across the country. This is leading to additional hiring in a number of areas.

As an example, APC Overnight recently announced the addition of 140 new, full-time positions to support the distribution centre the company opened in Cannock last year. The £1.5 million logistics facility provided 138,000 ft.² of additional warehouse space and plenty of docks for lorries to come in and out. The distribution centre also created 200 jobs when it first opened.

The new positions are expected to be mainly forklift drivers and warehouse operatives. APC Overnight hopes to have all of the new hires in place by September. Company officials stress that these are permanent positions intended for people who are willing to work hard and are interested in staying with the company for a long time. APC says it is offering a competitive salary as well as a performance bonus scheme for new hires.

Making the additional hiring possible is company growth that has been hovering around 20% month-on-month. APC Overnight intends to continue expanding their operations as additional growth warrants. That means there is likely to be more forklift and warehouse positions open at other facilities in the future.

Train to Be a Fork Lift Driver

UK law does not currently require forklift drivers to possess a unique licence in order to work. So yes, there are some companies that do not require their drivers to undergo training prior to being hired. However, we still believe it is a wise idea to be trained and certified by a company like ours. There are a couple of reasons we believe this is so.

First, employers are required by law to ensure, by whatever legal means necessary, a safe working environment for all employees. The government views forklift training and certification as a reasonable means. As a result, larger companies like APC Overnight are reluctant to hire forklift drivers lacking training and certification.

Second, it is generally accepted that proper training and certification makes the forklift driver is safer and more productive. Those are two qualities any warehouse manager is going to want to see in his/her drivers. Safety first, productivity second. We teach both at the HGV Training Centre.

Our training programmes are very affordable and convenient. We offer training at more than 45 locations throughout the UK, so there is likely one near to where you live. You will also be pleased to know that our training classes focus on only what you need to learn to do your job safely and effectively. Our concentrated approach ensures your training is completed as quickly as possible so that you can get to work. Contact us if you want more information about forklift training.

Sources:

1. The Business Desk – http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/westmidlands/news/633552-parcels-firm-apc-creates-140-new-jobs-after-opening-15m-distribution-hub?news_section=19030