There are reportedly over 5,000 truck driving jobs currently open in Belgium, according to Transport & Logistics Belgium. Today, around 400 firms are showing appreciation for drivers, thanking them for their daily dedication with small gestures.
"When the drivers arrive to load and unload at businesses today, they will receive a warm welcome. Small tokens of appreciation, such as cups of coffee, sweet treats and personal notes, will be waiting for them in many places," said the confederation.
Belgium is home to over 10,000 active companies in the goods transport sector. Collectively, they manage a fleet of over 86,000 lorries and vans, generating over 115,000 direct jobs. Despite this, the sector is grappling with a "severe labour shortage," warns Transport & Logistics Belgium.
"There are currently at least 5,000 vacant driver positions in our country. Without truck drivers, supermarket shelves and stores would be empty, all construction projects would cease, factories would be at a standstill. Despite these challenges, many drivers believe this profession is certainly a rewarding one with future prospects," the report concluded.