Canada’s trucking industry needs at least 20,000 new drivers, a shortage that poses a risk to the economy due to the country’s dependence on trucking. Food, Health & Consumer Products of Canada report states that the shortage became critical during the pandemic as some drivers left and demand increased. With a third of current drivers nearing retirement, the labour gap could reach 30,000 if recruitment doesn’t improve. This issue is nationwide, with provinces like Ontario needing 6,100 drivers. According to the report, factors such as an ageing workforce, demographics, and driver pay contribute to the shortage. The industry must appeal to the youth to combat this, with Trucking Canada launching a major PR effort and the Choose to Truck social media campaign.
