The UK’s logistics industry now contributes £170 billion annually to the economy and employs over 8% of the national workforce, according to new figures published in The Logistics Report 2025. Launched at Logistics UK’s first-ever annual conference in London, the report calls on the government to acknowledge the strategic importance of logistics in driving national growth.

Phil Roe, President of Logistics UK, highlighted that logistics is far more than a background function - it’s a core component of economic performance. He urged policymakers to position logistics as a priority within the UK's Industrial Strategy, noting its foundational role in enabling trade, supporting businesses, and sustaining supply chains.

The report combines official statistics with insights from industry professionals and survey responses from over 500 logistics firms. It reveals a dip in overall business confidence, attributed to ongoing economic pressures. However, firms continue to invest cautiously, particularly in new vehicle technology and sustainable fleet management, demonstrating their commitment to decarbonisation.

Despite efforts to modernise, the sector faces ongoing recruitment challenges. Larger firms are turning to automation and AI to fill gaps, but concerns remain about the need for a steady pipeline of skilled workers. As global trade agreements advance, experts stress that a resilient logistics network is vital to realising the full benefits of future trade deals.