The logistics sector could be set to face a serious driver shortage by 2020 if action is not taken to rethink approaches to recruitment. 

This is according to finance house Lombard, which published a study that shows demand for drivers is likely increase by 40 per cent over the next five years, Logistics Manager reports. 

A shortage of around 600,000 drivers is already being experienced by the industry, so the situation could be exacerbated if new recruits are not taken on. 

Head of commercial transport at Lombard Derek Pridmore said that the country's return to economic growth means logistics firms have the opportunity to capitalise on growing demand - but this might not happen if the driver shortage is not addressed. 

"There is an urgent need for investment to attract and secure future recruits to generate a healthy and profitable future for UK logistics," he commented.