GUEST COMMENT What UK logistics can learn from US about recruiting and retaining talent

Jess O’Dwyer, general manager Europe, Pocketalk, explains why overcoming language barriers is so important for attracting and retaining quality workers.

It’s no secret that the major growth in online shopping in the UK has expanded retail logistics and increased the demand for workers. The logistics sector has increasingly turned to foreign workers to plug the labour gap, with research by Prologis UK showing that in 2023 more than one in ten of logistics, warehousing, and supply chain workers in the UK were non-native English speakers.

Integrating this pool of workers into teams and smoothing workplace operations presents substantial communication challenges for the sector, where effective communication is essential. Thus the requirement to make logistics and supply chain workplaces more accessible to non-native English speakers is essential, not just a desirable DEI credential for firms to use to promote themselves as employers and business partners of choice. 

Success stories from the US
Firms in the UK can draw inspiration from the success of US retail powerhouse Kroger, which embraced technology to improve communication among its varied workforce. Kroger warehouses faced significant language barriers with up to seven to eight languages spoken simultaneously within a single facility. With language barriers causing health and safety concerns and prohibiting workplace integration, the management team distributed Pocketalk devices to sites across the organisation. The Pocketalk digital translation devices were used to enhance safety measures and facilitate day-to-day operations within the warehouses and refrigerated rooms. This initiative not only improved workplace communication, but also helped employees integrate better into their communities, enhancing their overall quality of life and job satisfaction.

Tapping into a wider pool of talent
Investing in overcoming communication barriers can boost talent engagement and retention, tapping into a wider pool of talent. It can also reduce the costs of recruiting and training. High turnover rates are costly and disruptive, so retaining staff is crucial to help manage costs. Creating a supportive environment that minimises language barriers can lead to higher job satisfaction, increased loyalty, and lower staff turnover.

Based on our experience at Pocketalk, here are some lessons that UK operations and logistics companies can learn from their US counterparts to grow a more inclusive and accessible workplace.

The value of overcoming language barriers 
Creating a workplace where language inclusion is a priority goes beyond mere compliance or checking a box — it’s fundamental to operational success and employee well-being. Language barriers can cause misunderstandings, reduce productivity, and even create safety hazards. When employees face challenges in communicating clearly, it impacts their confidence and job satisfaction, often leading to frustration. In industries like logistics where precision and efficiency are critical, even small communication issues can have far-reaching effects on the entire supply chain.

How tech can help teams bridge language barriers
Tech solutions play a critical role in bridging language barriers between workers. Tools like Pocketalk, a versatile language translation device, can facilitate real-time communication between employees who speak different languages. By offering instant, accurate, and secure translations, these tools empower workers to understand instructions, report problems, collaborate more efficiently, and, most importantly, comprehend safety protocols. This not only boosts safety and team collaboration, but also improves overall productivity.

Developing Language Training Programmes
While technology offers immediate solutions, long-term strategies should focus on investing in language training programs. Providing English as a Second Language (ESL) classes can greatly benefit non-native speakers. At the same time, offering basic language courses to native English speakers to learn key phrases from their colleagues’ languages can help build mutual respect and understanding. These programmes enhance communication and also demonstrate the company’s commitment to supporting employee development, which shows employees that they are valued by their employers.

Build a Multilingual Workplace
Building a multilingual work environment goes beyond translation tools and language classes; it requires integrating language inclusion into the company culture. This can be accomplished through bilingual signage and documentation, multilingual support staff, and communication policies that promote the use of multiple languages. These efforts ensure that everyone has equal access to important company information while helping all employees to use the language that’s easiest for them.

Ultimately, in a world that is becoming increasingly globalised, interconnected and diverse, breaking down language barriers will become even more important. By mirroring the efforts of their US counterparts and prioritising language inclusion, UK logistics companies can improve their operations and grow more equitable and supportive workplaces for all employees.

Jess O’Dwyer, general manager Europe, Pocketalk