Verhoek assists the Ministry of Defence with drivers.

STROE, 7 November 2024 – Verhoek Europe and Jan de Rijk Logistics have entered into a unique collaboration with the Ministry of Defence. By exchanging drivers, the Ministry of Defence is ensured of road-ready equipment. Verhoek stated: “In a short period, we’ve prepared a large number of vehicles for immediate deployment.”

The collaboration arose after a request from the Ministry of Defence to the HR ecosystem, a platform that connects organizations seeking to address workforce shortages together. The Ministry indicated a lack of sufficient driver capacity. The HR ecosystem brought together Jumbo Supermarkets, Connexxion/Transdev, Jan de Rijk Logistics, Logistics Force, and Verhoek Europe to tackle the issue.

“Defence operates Scania trucks that must be ready for deployment whenever necessary,” explains Claudia Verhoek of Verhoek Europe. “From the private sector, we’ve enabled our drivers to operate their vehicles on a daily or weekly basis. This has allowed us to prepare a large number of vehicles for immediate use in a short time frame.”

Keeping Equipment Operational

The initiative does not involve operational deployment for the Ministry of Defence. Instead, it consists of short trips to keep the equipment in working condition, which, on paper, may not sound particularly exciting. Yet, enthusiasm among Verhoek’s drivers is high, says Verhoek. “The drivers are very motivated.” While participation in the project is open to all, a dedicated group of drivers mainly carries out these tasks for Defence.

“The rolls business is physically demanding. Thanks to this project, we can offer our employees lighter tasks,” Verhoek explains. This creates opportunities for drivers dealing with (temporary) physical health issues and helps reduce absenteeism at Verhoek Europe.