Leyland Trucks has been awarded Gold in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), the MoD’s highest honour for employers demonstrating exceptional support for the armed forces community.
The achievement marks the latest milestone in the Lancashire manufacturer’s Armed Forces Covenant journey, following Bronze recognition in 2024 and Silver in 2025, and recognises its sustained commitment to supporting serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families.
Leyland Trucks said it recognised that the leadership, technical expertise, resilience and teamwork developed through military service were invaluable within modern advanced manufacturing, and helped strengthen both its workforce and the wider UK automotive sector.
The business provides two weeks’ additional paid leave for reservists to complete annual training, flexible working arrangements for military families and dedicated volunteering opportunities for employees supporting cadet organisations.
It has also established an internal Military Network, creating a community where cadets, veterans, reservists and military families can connect, share experiences and shape how the business continues to strengthen its support.
And, beyond its own workforce, Leyland Trucks works with military organisations, colleges and local cadet groups, hosting reservist recruitment events, site visits and careers activities while encouraging customers and suppliers to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and strengthen support across the manufacturing supply chain.
Phil Jones, Leyland Trucks MD, said: “Supporting the Armed Forces community isn’t something we do to win awards.
“We do it because it’s the right thing to do, and because the qualities developed through military service make our business stronger.
“Gold recognises a commitment that’s been built over many years and reflects the passion of colleagues across Leyland Trucks who have continually looked for new ways to support serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families.”
