People Power!

By Geraint Davies, RHA UK Director of Partnerships

On Sunday, I had the privilege of being a judge at the Porthcawl Truck Gathering, alongside respected transport journalist Bob Beech. Evaluating 16 categories - from historic classics in the "Old but Gold" category to Best overall Fleet - the sheer quality on display made it a tough job, but one theme stood out above all: pride.

Events like Porthcawl showcase the very heartbeat of UK haulage with several different sectors represented, from general haulage to bulk aggregates and specialised operations. Many of the attending companies were family businesses large and small, where generations of owners don't just sit in the traffic office - they are out working and getting involved, getting their hands dirty.

Catching up with RHA members like Ray Price (Alan Price), Ieuan Griffiths of Crynant Plant, Lee Jones from Celtic International and Stuart Keedwell (R T Keedwell) and many more provided fantastic opportunities to discuss pressing industry issues – including driver, technician and traffic office skill shortages, highlighting insights from the RHA's Intergenerational Workforce Paper, to abnormal load challenges.

Crucially, every conversation returned to driver welfare. A pristine truck means little without a supported team behind it, including the driver. That is why we introduced the RHA Wellbeing Charter - a practical framework helping operators provide better overall support, physical health resources, and improved working environments.

When family-run businesses lead by example, they set a benchmark for the whole industry. Thank you to all whose dedication keeps UK transport moving forward – it’s all about people.