UK car industry still faces looming skills shortage

CEO Warns of limited choice, higher costs for consumers as technician gap widens

UK car industry still faces looming skills shortage

As we’re all acutely aware, the UK’s automotive sector is facing a critical skills shortage, posing a significant threat to its future competitiveness. Steve Horne, CEO of GSF Car Parts, has echoed this warning.

Describing the issue as a “ticking timebomb,” Horne emphasises the urgent need to address this gap to avoid negative consequences for both businesses and consumers.

Despite significant growth, including a new distribution centre, GSF Car Parts struggles to recruit skilled workers. This shortage acts as an “artificial straitjacket,” hindering the growth of independent garages and potentially leading to higher repair costs for motorists.

Horne warns that the skills gap could negatively impact consumers by:

  • Reduced choice: Fewer skilled technicians could limit repair options for car owners.
  • Stifled competition: A smaller pool of technicians could lead to less competition among repair shops, potentially affecting service quality and pricing.
  • Increased costs: Difficulty finding qualified technicians could drive up labour costs, impacting car repair bills.

The need to address the skills gap is particularly pressing as the industry transitions to electric vehicles (EVs). Servicing and repairing EVs requires different skill sets compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Without a skilled workforce, the UK risks falling behind in this crucial technological shift.

Horne urges for immediate action to address the skills gap:

  • Attract young people: The industry needs to shed its outdated image and showcase the variety of skilled careers available in automotive technology.
  • Create training pathways: More opportunities for young people to enter the industry through apprenticeships and other training programs are crucial.
  • Global talent pool: Considering adding automotive technicians to the Shortage Occupation List could help attract skilled workers from abroad.

With the UK facing a post-pandemic economic recovery and an EV revolution, addressing the automotive sector’s skills gap is critical. By taking targeted action, the industry can ensure its future success and continue to serve consumers effectively.

Source: Business Matters

1 Comment

  1. Where’s the emphasis on upskilling the current workforce?
    Im constantly coming across older ( and even younger) mechanics leaving the industry because of vehicle complexity, which infact is a skills/ training issue as many ( myself included) are feeling increasingly de-skilled.

    Reply

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