Translation company Pocketalk is calling for UK logistics companies to follow their US counterparts and invest in overcoming language barriers to help recruit and retain staff.
As online shopping continues to surge, the logistics industry has grown rapidly, leading to a significant increase in the demand for workers. To address this demand, the industry has increasingly turned to foreign talent, with research showing 12% of logistics, warehousing, and supply chain workers in the UK in 2023 were non-native English speakers.
This reliance on a diverse workforce underscores the logistics sector’s role in promoting workplace diversity and inclusion. It also brings challenges in communication because effective communication is critical in logistics and operations.
Jess O’Dwyer, General Manager Europe of Pocketalk, said: “With the UK’s logistics sector being a cornerstone of the economy, ensuring that workplaces are accessible to non-native speakers is essential.
“Addressing communication barriers is not just about meeting legal obligations; it’s about creating a more inclusive and efficient work environment. By learning from US companies and investing in language inclusion, UK businesses can enhance talent engagement and retention, drawing from a wider pool of talent.
“Fostering a supportive environment that minimises language barriers can boost job satisfaction, increase employee loyalty, and significantly reduce staff turnover. Additionally, reducing turnover rates through better communication leads to cost savings, as high turnover can be both expensive and disruptive.
“This approach is key to retaining talent in the industry and ensuring long-term success in a diverse and dynamic global market.”
Read more about Pocketalk here https://www.pocketalk.com/