A third of UK tradespeople are considering quitting their job due to longer working days, according to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles survey.
- Financial pressures mean tradespeople are working longer days – up 10%, or 51 minutes, since 2022 – to keep money coming in to the business2
- This equates to almost an extra month every year as a result3
- ‘Work/life balance’ and ‘overworking’ are two of the main stressors for UK tradespeople
Milton Keynes, UK, 29 July 2026 – Almost one third (30%) of UK tradespeople have considered quitting their job over the past 12 months as they work longer hours than ever before, new research by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reveals1. he UK’s tradespeople are working an average of 9.44 hours per day, up almost 10%, or 51 minutes, compared to the 2022 average of 8.59 hours per day2. This equates to almost one extra month of work across the working year3. These longer working hours are having the most profound effect on 18-24 year olds, with as many as 45% saying they’re ready to quit due to working pressures. This is causing 44% to regularly stress about their work/life balance and 39% to have concern about constant overworking. Quitting their job would be a disaster for the UK economy, with three quarters of van drivers believing there is a shortage of skilled workers entering the industry1. It’s therefore essential for tradespeople to have reliable vehicles. By minimising downtime, the right choice of van makes workdays efficient and ensures confidence for tradespeople when on the road. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has a range of service plans that provide peace of mind, combining the cost of a number of scheduled services, paid monthly or upfront, avoiding larger payments when services are due. To further reduce vehicle-related concerns, the 5+ Promise is included as standard on all new Transporter, Amarok and California vehicles, which includes five services – three services for electric models – three MOTs, a five-year Warranty and five years’ Roadside Assistance.4 Recently, the brand was recognised by Fleet News as the ‘Most Reliable Van Manufacturer’ for the second consecutive year. The award-winning range of products and services is designed to help avoid unexpected headaches and keep drivers confident on the road, and with the accountant. Richard Welch, Technical Training & Development Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said:
“UK tradespeople are facing challenges from all angles, having to work longer days than ever before to survive, the industry is at breaking point. At Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, we are dedicated to providing vehicles and services that reduce the burden by being reliable business partners to drivers through those long, hard days.”
For more information regarding Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, please visit: www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk
