Skills for Logistics (SfL) is agreeing formal relationships with transport and logistics associations to ensure the industry receives the training programmes it needs.
SfL and the FTA signed a memorandum of understanding last week at the judging sessions for the Motor Transport Awards, while a similar agreement was due to be signed this week with the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA).
Further plans have been agreed with the Chartered Institute of Logistics and the Electrical Distributors Association. SfL also has an agreement in principle to work with the RHA. Other organisations in SfL's sights include the British Association of Removers, British International Freight 
Association and the Food Storage and Distribution Federation.
CEO Dr Mick Jackson says SfL is also considering working with other sector skills councils, including those covering food manufacturing and retailing.
The strategic plan for joint working 2009-2012 between SfL and the FTA lays out the following key objectives for the two organisations to achieve together:
To develop and provide FTA members fundable training and skills development programmes, and, where appropriate, bespoke products for different industry sub-sectors.
To support the implementation of SfL's professional development stairway as a basis for career development planning in the logistics sector.
To provide a framework for the development, maintenance and review of National Occupational Standards via structure involvement of employers.