ASTAG Ensures Supply in Switzerland

Unlike in Great Britain, supply and disposal in Switzerland are guaranteed at all times – thanks to the high and reliable commitment of the road transport industry. However, the demand for additional driving personnel is significant. The Swiss Commercial Vehicle Association ASTAG continues to focus on targeted promotion of young talent. The existing social partnership with Les Routiers Suisses is also important. Wage demands, as they have been made public in recent days, are normal in the autumn.

(Bern) The Swiss Commercial Vehicle Association ASTAG is pleased about the strong presence of the road transport industry in the media over the past few days. In light of the tense situation in Great Britain, the question of whether Switzerland should also expect supply shortages was of particular interest. The demand for additional professional drivers, which ASTAG has been highlighting for years, suddenly came into focus. The topic was how the promotion of young talent could be enhanced. Les Routiers Suisses, the responsible association for employees in road transport, took the position that Swiss transport companies recruit too much personnel from abroad. There was also a call for “better working conditions”.

For ASTAG, it is clear:

• Supply and disposal in Switzerland are guaranteed at all times – thanks to the reliable, safe, and environmentally friendly services of the road transport industry, including the drivers.
• With the support of many member companies, ASTAG – as the only organization – has been intensively committed for years to increasing the number of young professionals and career changers.
• Notable initiatives include the very close and good cooperation with the army (driver training), career fairs, school visits, and the campaign “Profis on Tour”.
• The main reason for the driver shortage is the sharply increasing demand from businesses and consumers for transport services.
• Moreover, the traffic congestion issue significantly affects the attractiveness of the profession.
• Unfortunately, the demand for drivers cannot be fully met domestically despite all efforts, just like in public transport (road, rail).
• For supply security, in addition to the proven professionals from Switzerland, drivers from abroad are needed.
• However, the situation is better than in other countries. The reason is the active commitment of Swiss transport companies for “their” drivers and the promotion of young talent.

For ASTAG, targeted promotion of young talent remains a top priority. As developments and forecasts show, the demand for qualified and motivated driving personnel is likely to increase further. The profession of driver has a future – like all professions in transport and logistics.

Furthermore, ASTAG is committed to continuing the existing long-standing social partnership with Les Routiers Suisses. Autumn is – as in other industries – the normal time for wage demands or negotiations between social partners. ASTAG will gladly seek discussions with Les Routiers Suisses. However, the effective determination of wages lies solely within the competence of the individual transport companies.

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