The UK logistics sector stands at a crossroads. With over 500 hauliers entering administration last year and operating costs continuing to rise, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has issued a powerful Autumn Budget Submission calling for decisive government action. At Meachers Global Logistics, we believe this submission highlights critical issues that must be addressed to secure the future of our industry—and the economy it supports.
Fuel Duty: A Barrier to Growth
Diesel remains the lifeblood of the haulage industry, yet UK diesel excise duty is the highest in Europe. With net-zero alternatives still years away from viability, the RHA’s call for an Essential User Rebate is both timely and necessary. Such a rebate would ease cost pressures, reduce inflationary impacts, and level the playing field for UK hauliers competing internationally.
At Meachers, we echo this call. Our fleet operations are directly impacted by fuel costs, and any increase in duty would not only strain our margins but also affect the cost of goods transported across the country.
Infrastructure Investment: Unlocking Economic Potential
The RHA rightly emphasises the need for bold and ambitious investment in road infrastructure. Congestion and delays are more than inconveniences—they are economic drains. Every minute lost in traffic is a minute lost in productivity.
We support the RHA’s push for a strategic roadmap that prioritises upgrades to the UK’s logistics network. Efficient road systems are essential for frictionless movement of goods, regional development, and job creation.
Decarbonisation: A £100 Billion Challenge
The transition to net-zero is a shared goal, but the cost of decarbonising the UK’s heavy commercial vehicle fleet is estimated at a staggering £100 billion. The RHA calls for a clear, managed roadmap to help SMEs—who make up 95% of the sector—navigate this transition.
Meachers is committed to sustainability, but we recognise that without targeted support and realistic timelines, many operators will struggle to adapt. We urge policymakers to work with the industry to develop scalable, affordable solutions.
Skills and Workforce: Building for the Future
The logistics sector faces a chronic skills shortage, particularly in technical roles. The RHA’s submission highlights the need for a skills revolution to attract new talent and upskill the existing workforce.
As a company invested in training and development, Meachers supports initiatives that break down barriers to entry and create long-term career pathways in logistics.
A Call to Action
The RHA’s Autumn Budget Submission is more than a policy document—it’s a lifeline for an industry under pressure. At Meachers Global Logistics, we stand with the RHA in calling for urgent reforms that will protect jobs, support growth, and ensure the UK remains a global leader in logistics.
We invite our partners, clients, and policymakers to engage with these issues and work collaboratively toward a resilient, future-ready logistics sector.
