Logistics UK is set to highlight the vital contribution of the logistics industry to Northern Ireland’s economy when it hosts its Nothing Moves Without Logistics reception at the Northern Ireland Assembly on Thursday, 19 November.

The event, taking place in Room 115 of Parliament Buildings, Stormont, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, will bring together political representatives, industry leaders and logistics professionals to recognise the essential role the sector plays in keeping Northern Ireland moving.

The reception will also mark the launch of a new Logistics UK report examining the economic contribution of the industry and outlining recommendations aimed at supporting future growth, competitiveness and investment.

Logistics a major contributor to Northern Ireland’s economy

The logistics industry is a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s economy, supporting businesses, households and public services while ensuring the efficient movement of goods throughout the region and beyond.

According to figures highlighted by Logistics UK, more than 6,000 logistics businesses operate across Northern Ireland, employing almost 70,000 people.

This represents approximately eight per cent of the region’s workforce, underlining the industry’s importance as a major employer.

Meanwhile, the wider transport and storage sector contributes an estimated £1.6 billion to the Northern Ireland economy.

From road haulage and warehousing to distribution and supply chain management, logistics businesses play a central role in supporting manufacturing, retail, agriculture, construction and international trade.

Focus on growth, competitiveness and investment

The new Logistics UK report will examine the sector’s economic importance and identify opportunities to strengthen Northern Ireland’s position as a competitive logistics and distribution hub.

The findings are expected to provide a platform for discussions around the policies and investment needed to support the industry’s continued development.

For Northern Ireland’s road haulage operators, key challenges include rising operating costs, infrastructure investment, workforce availability and the additional complexities associated with moving goods between Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

With cross-border trade and access to UK and European markets central to many transport businesses, the logistics sector has a particularly important role in Northern Ireland’s economic future.

Industry and political representatives to address reception

The reception will feature contributions from several prominent industry and political representatives, including:

• Ben Garratt, Interim Director of Policy and Communications, Logistics UK.

• Peter McReynolds MLA, Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly.

• Maire Claire Reid, Managing Director, TST Group.

The event will also provide an opportunity for networking between policymakers, logistics operators and other industry stakeholders.

Recognising an essential industry

The Nothing Moves Without Logistics campaign aims to reinforce the message that logistics is fundamental to economic activity and everyday life.

Whether delivering food to supermarkets, supplying manufacturers, transporting construction materials or ensuring essential public services receive the goods they need, the logistics industry supports virtually every aspect of Northern Ireland’s economy.

By bringing the sector’s contribution directly to Stormont, Logistics UK hopes to strengthen engagement with policymakers and ensure logistics remains central to future economic and infrastructure planning.

Event details and registration

The Nothing Moves Without Logistics reception takes place on Thursday, 19 November 2026, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, in Room 115, Parliament Buildings, Northern Ireland Assembly.

The programme includes networking, refreshments, the launch of the new economic report and addresses from industry and political representatives.

Those interested in attending or seeking further information should contact Logistics UK at publicaffairs@logistics.org.uk.