Logistics UK Responds to Mr Burnham's Appointment
Working Closely
Ben Fletcher, Chief Executive of business group Logistics UK, which represents the whole sector, commented today (20 July 2026) on Mr Burnham's appointment as Prime Minister, after Mr Burnham's meeting with King Charles III:
"Congratulations to Andy Burnham on his appointment as Prime Minister. Logistics UK looks forward to working closely with him and his government to deliver the economic and industrial growth the whole country needs, and ensure the logistics sector remains at the heart of a competitive and resilient UK economy."
"'Manchesterism' has been a great example of how an economy and city can thrive with a clear plan that puts transport at its heart. The UK's logistics industry employs people in every constituency across the country. Our sector wants to work with the new Government to take the best of 'Manchesterism' and turbocharge its delivery, linking up every town and city in the UK, as well as helping enable over a trillion pounds of international trade."
"Nothing moves without logistics and our sector will be vital to the UK's reindustrialisation and growth plans. It underpins the economy, supporting businesses, homes and public services, employing 8% of the UK workforce and contributing £175 billion in GVA each year."
"Our sector's hubs and workforce are embedded in communities across the country, providing skilled jobs, rewarding careers and enabling businesses to trade, domestically and internationally. As the government continues its drive for industrial growth and devolution, logistics has a key role to play in ensuring investment translates into improved standards of living and opportunities in every region and nation of the UK."
Logistics UK is one of the UK's biggest business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, water and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk
