We may be facing a Haribo shortage – and people are worried

In news which is less than Tangfastic, sweets giant Haribo is reportedly “experiencing challenges” with bringing its treats over to the UK owing to a shortage of lorry drivers.

The Guardian reported on Thursday that Haribo have even called off specific offers on their share bags in a bid to preserve supplies.

The company, which is based in Germany, said in a statement published by the paper: “As is the case with many manufacturers and retailers throughout the country, we are experiencing challenges with regards to the nationwide driver shortage.

“We are working with partners across the food and drink industry to address and respond to this problem.”

It comes just over a week after the Road Haulage Association (RHA) wrote to Boris Johnson calling on him to address the “rapidly deteriorating shortage” of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers.

Looking at Twitter, a sweets-drought is where many users draw the line:

Retailers and suppliers are struggling to find enough haulage drivers in the UK, with experts warning a “perfect storm” is brewing due to several factors hitting the sector.

The RHA believes there is currently a shortfall of about 60,000 drivers due to around 30,000 HGV driving tests not taking place last year due to the pandemic.

Typically, 72,000 candidates train to become HGV drivers, with 40,000 passing. But only 15,000 were able to complete training last year, the organisation said.

In its letter to the Prime Minister, the RHA explained that many drivers had also returned to their country of origin during extended periods of lockdown and restricted travel, with the vast majority not returning.

He was also quizzed on the issue at Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday this week.

Brexit is also playing a part in the shortage, according to the RHA, with many drivers unsure of their rights to work in the UK.

Retailers have been complaining for months over the issues, including Tesco and Currys PC World acknowledging the impact.

Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, recently said: “Retailers are aware of a fall in HGV driver numbers, resulting in minor disruption to some supply chains.

“Supermarkets are working closely with their suppliers to ensure that consumers still have access to the same great selection of goods.

“Government must rapidly increase the number of HGV driving tests taking place while also looking for a longer-term solution to this issue.”

One thing is clear, kids and grown-ups do not love the situation.