The logistics and warehousing sector in the North East of England is undergoing significant transformation, driven by substantial infrastructure investments and evolving market demands. Nevertheless, this growth brings challenges, particularly in workforce development. In this blog, we explore how the sector is adapting to these changes and highlight what’s being done to build a skilled, future-ready workforce.
A Region on the Rise
The establishment of the Teesside Freeport in 2021 marked a pivotal moment for the region. Indeed, as the UK’s largest freeport, it spans 4,500 acres across multiple sites, including Teesworks, Wilton International, Teesside International Airport, and the sea ports of Hartlepool and Teesport. Importantly, his initiative aims to stimulate economic growth through tax incentives and streamlined customs procedures. (Teesside Freeport)
Teesport itself is a significant asset, handling over 56 million tonnes of cargo annually and serving as a logistical hub for various industries, including steel, petrochemical, and retail. (Teesport)
The Pressure on Talent
The demand for skilled labour has intensified. Data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that job adverts for warehouse staff in the UK rose by 43.2% at the end of 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels. More specifically, the North East experienced a 98.1% increase in job adverts for warehouse workers between December 2019 and December 2022. (Logistics Manager)
The Need for Workforce Development
To respond to these challenges, employers are investing in apprenticeships and training programmes to build a skilled workforce. Initiatives like the South Tees Development Corporation have made substantial investments at the Teesworks site, accelerating demolition and remediation work to meet the anticipated demand. (Teesside Freeport)
A Skills-First Future
At Zenith, we collaborate with logistics and manufacturing employers across the North East to bridge the skills gap. Whether it’s sourcing new apprentices to delivering Skills Bootcamps aligned with industry needs, our goal is to future-proof your workforce. Ultimately, with the right planning, the North East can lead the way in creating a modern, skilled logistics sector.
To learn more about our training division and Business Solutions, visit the Zenith Training website Home – Zenith Training. Or click here to learn more about our Recruitment services! Employers – Zenith People