According to the Agri-Supply Coalition, driver shortages are affecting many parts of the agricultural supply sector, ranging from the delivery of inputs to the collection of produce. This is adding to challenges caused by other labour shortages and widespread disruption to global supply chains. As a result, the Coalition is calling on farmers and their suppliers to plan ahead and maintain a dialogue.
The Coalition, comprising nine trade and professional associations involved in the supply of goods, services and advice to UK farmers, has observed recent difficulties that range from delayed imports of raw materials and delivery of spare parts to the ability to collect grain and other produce from farms.
Driver shortages have been compounded by a range of issues including Covid-19 and self-isolation, disrupted global supply chains, and EU:UK trade difficulties to create growing haulage and delivery delays.
“Some delays are frustrating in terms of delaying operations due to delayed arrival of spare parts or arable inputs, but others – such as the supply of animal feed – can lead to welfare issues while perishable produce can be lost,” said Robert Sheasby who coordinates the Agri-Supply Coalition. “These look to get worse as we go into the winter. Coalition members are sharing their experiences with Government through regular dialogue and working collaboratively to find ways forward.”
For farmers, at present, the message is clear that requirements need to be planned further ahead than normal. For the supply industry, it is a need to communicate regularly and openly with customers on what is feasible.
The Agri-Supply Coalition comprises the Agricultural Engineers Association, Agricultural Industries Confederation, British Society of Plant Breeders, Central Association of Agricultural Valuers, Crop Protection Association, Grain and Feed Trade Association, International Meat Trades Association, National Association of Agricultural Contractors, and National Office of Animal Health.