ECG — 2025-10-28
News from ECG
The Shortage of Labour in the finished vehicle sector is dire. A blunt, direct statement which stems from detailed discussions with those involved in the FVL sector in Europe. An ECG survey directed at those at the forefront of moving vehicles, whether by road, rail, waterways or indeed using compounds resulted in 96% stating the current situation is of serious concern.
What does this mean for tomorrow? Within the transport & logistics sector as a whole this is already a huge worry in Europe. According to Dr. Klaus Wohrabe, ifo institute, “I see the shortage of skilled labour as a structural issue – it is here to stay.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Alan McKinnon of the Kühne Logistics University in Hamburg explains the ‘westerly drift’ continues to be a problem. “We've had the migration of lots of drivers from Eastern Europe into Western Europe,” he says, adding: “this is the way in which a lot of countries have dealt with the problem - by poaching drivers from nearby countries.”
ECG’s Special Survey on the Shortage of Labour in FVL in Europe produced both sectoral and regional findings. The next steps will be discussed in upcoming dialogues, including the possible development of an FVL Labour Shortage Index to track labour market developments more precisely, support fact-based discussions with policymakers, and identify targeted actions to make these jobs more attractive and improve working conditions.
Furthermore, ECG is considering establishing an expert group among its members focused on HR topics to exchange best practices and develop concrete measures to tackle labour and skills shortages across the industry.
“As the labour shortage has been affecting our sector for quite some time, ECG will continue to address it through various initiatives to ensure it does not fall off the agenda,” says Frank Schnelle, Executive Director of ECG.
ECG thanks its Members and Partners for sharing their insights on this highly relevant topic. Detailed insights, analysis, and next steps are available for Members in the latest Business Intelligence Report