How Your Fleet Can Thrive During Supply Chain Shortages
July 20, 2022
With a lot of recent disruptions to the supply chain, from vehicle supply to HGV driver shortages, times have been tough for many commercial fleets and logistics companies around the country. Businesses across the fleet sector may be asking themselves these three questions:
“What is causing these shortages?”
“What can I do to get on top of these issues?”
“How will this affect my company?”
While these issues are affecting all companies in different ways, we have some tips to help you mitigate the effects.
“What is causing the shortages?”
As with most geo-political and industrial trends, the root cause is often complicated and nuanced. Many of the supply issues we’re facing today can be attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit.
Vehicle supply shortages are primarily caused by semiconductor shortages, also rooted in the pandemic. According to Forbes Wheels, the pandemic caused the most disruption seen in the vehicle industry since WWII. This effect has been widespread, especially with an increasing amount of companies looking to switch to electric vehicles.
As a result of the aforementioned shortages over the past few years, new vehicle and lease costs are high. Although many of these prices are now coming down, they're still higher than pre-pandemic.
On a positive note, the June 2023 bulletin from Driver Require analysing data from the Office of National Statistics, reports that UK HGV driver shortages have stabilised for the fourth consecutive quarter after suffering considerably during the pandemic.
“What can I do to get on top of these issues?”
If you’re being affected by vehicle shortages and high costs, you may be concerned about how to keep your operations running smoothly.
Could a livery refresh be your answer?
If your fleet looks dated and you're struggling to source replacements, a livery refresh will revitalise your vehicles and make them look brand new.
Utilising your fleet as a mobile billboard will ensure you’re presenting yourself in the best possible way on the road. New branded liveries are an excellent example of cost-effective, unobtrusive advertising - liveried vehicles are seen by 3,000 people per hour in busy areas!
Capture attention with professional on-brand designs and expert application whilst saving money with a 'refresh instead of replace' approach.
We also carry out paint touchups and other repairs, giving your vehicles a new lease of life!
A fleet with old or tired livery reflects badly on your organisation. It's time to maximise your potential and get your brand working for you with a shiny new look.
At Aura, we can orchestrate a livery refresh of any existing fleet assets with minimal downtime to avoid affecting your fleet's productivity. Our nationwide network of installers means we’re always nearby to keep your branding fresh and looking its best.
In summary, supply chain issues are complex and will take time to resolve. If you're not able to access new vehicles yet, you can still optimise your fleet by refreshing your livery. Presenting your brand well will attract not just customers but also potential employees.
In times like these, it’s creative thinkers who will get ahead of issues, and in the long run, a proactive mindset is better than a reactive one.
Get in touch to get your vehicles working for you!
