The global trucking industry is currently facing a significant challenge with a growing shortage of professional drivers. This situation extends beyond individual countries, impacting global commerce and logistics. As this crisis deepens, its effects on supply chains and the broader world economy are becoming more pronounced. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the complex factors contributing to this shortage. They report on the International Road Transport Union’s 2023 driver shortage report, which uncovered demographic changes and lifestyle preferences affecting the recruitment of new drivers. From this episode, listeners will learn about the challenges leading to the global shortage of professional drivers and the potential impact this will have on international supply chains and economies. Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions: 1. What are the key factors contributing to the global shortage of professional drivers? 2. How does this driver shortage impact international supply chains and the global economy? 3. What are the potential solutions or strategies being considered to address the shortage of professional drivers? Skip and Samantha also explain and give examples of these useful business words and phrases: A dilemma (noun) A culprit (noun) To keep tabs on something (idiom) A barrier to entry (phrase) A concerted effort (phrase) Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information.