The International Road Transport Union (IRU) was founded in 1948 and is the world's leading road transport organisation with 180 member associations in over 70 countries. The IRU also promotes the interests of one of the most important groups in the logistics chain: the drivers. However, the increasing shortage of drivers has led to the perception that the profession is not highly regarded. And, sadly, the challenging situation drivers faced during the COVID-19 pandemic did little to alter this impression. The IRU believes in urgent action to fix the driver shortage issue.

Therefore, together with the European Shippers' Council (ESC) and the European Transport Workers' Federation (ETF), the IRU has now drawn up a charter called "Improving the Treatment of Drivers at Delivery Sites". The charter aims to promote shared values of respect and courtesy to help improve the treatment of drivers at the collection and delivery sites, guarantee them the best possible safe working environment, and make sure they have access to clean and safe sanitary facilities.

With voluntary commitments by shippers, transport companies and drivers, the charter intends to raise awareness of the importance of fair and mutual cooperation. The Alfred Schuon company has advocated for greater appreciation of drivers for a long time and was one of the first businesses to sign on to the initiative. The transport and logistics specialist from Haiterbach in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is convinced that this is the most effective way to counter the shortage of skilled workers in the future. Schuon's advocacy is an excellent demonstration of the importance of treating others with decency and respect.