Clipper Logistics will train its warehouse staff to be HGV drivers under a new initiative across the UK.
The training initiative, Resolve, will see the operator train warehouse staff and put them through their Cat C test over the course of a year.
The scheme was originally piloted at Clipper's Swadlincote site, but will be rolled out nationally through the year, starting in April.
Clipper said the move was to prove its commitment to helping solve the UK's driver shortage, and added that it plans to upgrade to training for C+E licences in the future.
Driver First Assist is also working with Clipper on the Revolve initiative, training the drivers in first aid and accident scene management.
The syllabus also includes modules on maintenance, health and safety, and customer service.
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Practical driving training will be provided by SB Training.
Clipper's transport operations director Mick Doe said: "Revolve has seen fantastic demand, and we’re proud to be launching a training programme that can have such positive effects.
"We’re always looking at the next step, and we’re already in the process of looking at offering Class 1 driver training as an option in the future. "Alongside our driver simulators, which were launched last year, Clipper has proven itself to be at the forefront of professional HGV operation.”
Driver First Assist director Matthew Yates praised Clipper for its "exceptional forward thinking" on the Revolve scheme.
He added: "We’re proud to be working with them on an important element of training.
"Our aim is helping to provide a first response and crucial first aid assistance on the UK's roads, ahead of attendance by the emergency services."
