Following years of campaigning from industry bodies and supply chain organisations, the UK Government has updated the role of Keir Mather to Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Logistics, giving the logistics sector a clearly named representative within government. While not the standalone logistics minister many had hoped for, it is an important step towards greater recognition of the industry’s contribution to the UK economy.
We spoke to Gary Whittle, Operations Director at Meachers Global Logistics and Chairman of the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA), to get his thoughts on what this announcement means for warehousing and logistics.
Q: What was your reaction to the appointment of a Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Logistics?
“It’s definitely a positive development. For a long time, the logistics sector has been calling for greater recognition within government. Logistics touches every part of the economy, from manufacturing and retail to healthcare and construction, so having logistics explicitly recognised within a ministerial title is an important step forward. While this isn’t yet the dedicated, cross-government logistics minister that many organisations have been advocating for, it gives the industry a clearer point of contact and demonstrates that government is listening to the sector’s concerns.”
Q: Why is government recognition of logistics so important?
“Because logistics is often the invisible engine behind economic growth. When supply chains work well, nobody notices. When they don’t, everyone feels the impact. The industry contributes billions to the UK economy and supports trade both domestically and internationally. Despite that, policies affecting logistics are often spread across multiple government departments. Greater recognition helps ensure decisions are made with a clear understanding of how they affect the movement of goods and the businesses that rely on efficient supply chains.”
Q: As Chairman of UKWA, what do you think should be the new minister’s top priority?
“If I had to choose one area, it would be skills and workforce development. Warehousing today is a highly skilled industry. Modern facilities rely on technology, automation, data analytics and experienced operational professionals. We need to continue attracting talented people into the sector and helping them build long-term careers. That means supporting apprenticeships, improving industry awareness in schools and colleges, and creating more opportunities for professional development across logistics and warehousing.”
Q: What role does warehousing play in the UK’s supply chain success?
“Warehousing has evolved dramatically over the last decade. It’s no longer simply about storing products. Today’s warehouses are sophisticated distribution hubs that support inventory management, e-commerce fulfilment, value-added services and supply chain resilience. The growth of online commerce and increasing customer expectations mean warehouses are now at the centre of supply chain performance. Policymakers need to recognise that modern warehousing infrastructure is essential to economic growth.”
Q: What infrastructure improvements would you like to see?
“Investment in infrastructure should be a major focus. Efficient transport links, strategic logistics locations and improved freight connectivity all contribute to stronger supply chains. The Road Haulage Association has already highlighted infrastructure as one of the key priorities for the new minister, and I would agree that’s an area where progress can deliver real benefits to businesses and consumers alike.”
Q: Sustainability remains a major topic across logistics. What should government focus on?
“Businesses are already investing heavily in sustainability initiatives, whether that’s renewable energy, more efficient buildings, alternative fuels or lower-carbon transport solutions. What the sector needs is long-term certainty and practical support. Sustainability goals must be ambitious but achievable. Government and industry need to work together to develop realistic pathways that help businesses invest with confidence.”
Q: Are there any warehousing-specific issues that need greater attention?
“Absolutely. Planning and development remain significant challenges in many areas. As demand for warehouse space continues to grow, it’s important that planning frameworks support appropriate logistics development. The right facilities, in the right locations, are crucial for maintaining efficient supply chains and supporting future economic growth. Warehousing should be viewed as critical national infrastructure because that’s exactly what it is.”
Q: What other challenges should be high on the minister’s agenda?
“Alongside skills, infrastructure and sustainability, I’d like to see greater attention given to the increasing cost pressures facing warehouse operators. Across the sector, businesses are dealing with rising labour costs, higher energy bills, increasing compliance requirements and significant business rates liabilities. These costs continue to grow at a time when customers are also demanding greater efficiency, faster delivery and enhanced service levels. Warehousing is a critical part of the UK’s economic infrastructure, but operators need the right environment to invest, grow and create jobs. A review of the cost burden on the sector, particularly around business rates, would be welcomed by many businesses. If the government wants to encourage investment in modern, sustainable warehouse facilities, it’s important that the overall operating environment remains competitive. Supporting businesses through sensible policy decisions would help unlock further growth, drive productivity and strengthen UK supply chains.”
Q: What would success look like for this new ministerial role?
“Success would be more than a title change. It would mean genuine engagement with the industry and measurable progress on the issues that matter most. I’d like to see continued collaboration with organisations such as UKWA, Logistics UK and the RHA, alongside practical action on skills, infrastructure, sustainability and long-term freight strategy. If this role helps create more joined-up policy making and gives logistics a stronger voice across government, it will have delivered real value for the sector.”
The logistics industry keeps the UK moving every day. From warehouse operators and drivers to planners and supply chain specialists, the sector plays an essential role in supporting businesses, communities and economic growth. The appointment of a Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Logistics is a welcome step forward. Now we have an opportunity to build on that recognition and ensure logistics and warehousing receive the strategic attention they deserve. As Chairman of the UK Warehousing Association, Gary is also supporting UKWA’s campaign calling for action on business rates and the growing cost pressures facing warehouse operators.
UKWA is encouraging members to write to their MPs and has created a simple template letter to make participation quick and straightforward.
To learn more about the campaign and add your voice, click here.
