A recent survey by Talent in Logistics, sponsored by UKMHA (UK Material Handling Association), found that more than half (51%) of male forklift operators aged 30 and over do not find their management to be trustworthy and honest. 52% would also not recommend their job to family and friends. 

These insights, and others, are revealed in a new report titled “What lift truck operators really think of their job”.  

The research report also reveals that 47% of the 30-plus male demographic surveyed don’t feel recognised for the job they do and just 42% feel that their opinion matters when a company is looking to change things. 

“We are in the midst of a national warehousing skills shortage, so employers must take action now to retain skilled lift truck operators,” says Ruth Edwards, operations director for Talent in Logistics. “It is clear that some changes are needed at management level to improve communications, build trust, and make operators feel valued.”

“Lift truck operators are an ageing, and predominantly male, workforce – 48% of those taking our survey were aged 51 or over. So, as well as fixing these inherent issues, recruiting new talent is key,” she continues. 

Most female operators (60%) and all employees aged 18-21 said they'd rather have a good manager than a 5% pay rise, highlighting the importance of management on employee satisfaction and engagement.

“Positively, our research showed that these younger workers and female operators are incredibly loyal – 88% of the female operators and 100% of the 18- to 21-year-olds said they could see themselves working for the same company in two years,” says Edwards. “Their responses in the survey provide a good insight into what employers need to do in order to attract more people from these groups into the workforce.”

Young people are particularly interested in career development, with 94% of respondents aged 18-30 saying they want to progress in their career. 

Work/life balance is also a high priority for young people, with 100% of the 18- to 21-year-olds saying they would prefer a better work/life balance than a 5% pay rise, and 65% of 18– to 30-year-olds saying the same.

Tim Waples, chief executive of UKMHA, says the report highlights “some real issues within our industry that must be addressed”.

“Lift truck operators play a vital role in the supply chain and logistics and, to ensure the welfare and retention of staff, employers must do more to ensure the safety of operators (and bystanders), whilst looking at what reward and recognition they have in place to ensure these experienced people feel valued in the vital role that they fulfil,” he adds.