The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) has experienced a significant membership increase, attributed to the industry’s drive towards electrification.
- This growth, amounting to 15% over the past year, is driven by the need for fleet managers to access expert electrification advice.
- AFP’s awareness in the industry has been pivotal, promoting its role as a key problem-solver for fleet-related challenges.
- Training initiatives addressing the skills shortage in fleet management have been instrumental in attracting new members.
- Persistent structural issues, especially in the van sector, highlight the demand for AFP’s guidance and solutions.
In the face of evolving industry demands, the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) has witnessed a remarkable membership growth of 15% over the past year. This surge is primarily attributed to fleet managers seeking out crucial information about electrification, as operators across both small and large fleets are increasingly aware of the AFP’s role in addressing fleet challenges.
AFP’s Chairman, Paul Hollick, has noted a broad increase in membership, encompassing car operators, van operators, and a diverse array of suppliers. The organisation’s fifth year, post the merger of ACFO and the ICFM, has been marked by a significant increase in awareness about the energy and solutions that AFP brings to the table. Hollick stated, “We’ve seen an increase in members right across the board, including both car and van operators, small and large fleets, and a wide diversity of suppliers.”
As the industry progresses towards electrification, smaller and larger fleet operators are grappling with intricate issues, particularly within the van sector. Hollick has highlighted the ongoing structural challenges that persist within this area, stating, “Many of our new members are struggling in these areas, and looking for help and advice.” This underscores the importance of the practical assistance that AFP continues to provide amidst the industry’s intricate transition to electric fleets.
The AFP’s strategic focus on training has also been a key factor driving membership growth. Given the current skills shortage within the industry and the anticipated retirement of a significant portion of high-level fleet expertise, training initiatives remain pivotal. Hollick emphasised the importance of this strategy by highlighting the potential loss of expertise and the critical need to train future fleet managers, “We are continuing to grow both the number of people that we train and the variety of courses we offer.”
The involvement of companies such as Autoglass, which is training technicians in electric vehicle windscreen repair, and Wiltshire Farm Foods’ investment in over 200 electric vans for its fleet, further illustrates the growing momentum towards electrification. Despite a recent drop in electric van registrations, optimism persists, highlighting an industry focused on innovation and sustainable transport solutions.
The AFP’s burgeoning membership underscores its critical role in navigating the fleet industry’s electrification challenges.
