Growth figures positive but there's a long road ahead

The latest ONS figures, released last week show our economy grew by 0.7% in the first three months of 2025, which is better than the 0.6% economists predicted. While this is very welcome news and there’s room for optimism, we still need to keep things in perspective.

These numbers are reflective of the months before April's tax increases kicked in. They don't yet fully highlight the full impact of the higher costs for employers that came into force in April.

We'll be watching closely in the coming weeks as the dust settles after the UK/EU summit. It will be interesting to see what (if anything) this will mean for work on further trade deals, following the recent one with the US. Government has a difficult job balancing needs, but businesses rightly expect support to help drive growth. The Chancellor has only a short time to prepare for a tricky Autumn Budget, as it's likely the effects of the recent unstable trade conditions will be more evident by then.

As key economic enablers, we must always be on the front foot to future-proof the supply chain. It's crucial that policymakers work alongside us to minimise the financial burden and the regulations placed on businesses. We've set out clearly what haulage, coach and van operators need to help achieve that growth.

Meeting housing targets needs a strong construction industry – supported by efficient road freight and logistics. Key infrastructure projects to reduce congestion will make journeys quicker and connect communities further – that’s all made possible by road transport.

Many businesses are now focused on the final stages of the Employment Rights Bill going through Parliament, which still has some distance to go to address employers' worries and encourage hiring and expansion.

Cutting down on red-tape and bureacracy for compliant firms would be a welcome move. After all, investment is the lifeblood of the economy. If we’re to encourage more investment and stimulate growth, we need to see the conditions in place that allow businesses to not just survive, but thrive.

Today's growth figures are positive, but we still have a long road ahead. We’ll continue to collaborate with other business and trade bodies in the coming months. We've a collective responsibility to advance policies that enable growth and investment, and to caution against measures that risk stifling both.

As the largest dedicated trade association representing HGVs, LGVs and Coaches, we stand ready to work with decision-makers and trusted partners to grow and contribute to a thriving economy.