Ashford Intl Truckstop wins award, as industry calls for more driver support
awarding company say drivers are the backbone of the UK economy, with a call to create safer spaces on the roadside
Ashford International Truck Stop has as been named Logistics UK’s Best Truck Stop of the Year 2026, following more than 200 nominations from HGV drivers across the country. Drivers judged facilities on factors including security, lighting, food availability and value for money, with Ashford selected as the overall winner from six shortlisted sites.
Operations Director Darren Smith said:
"It's a nice achievement for the staff, to know that their hard work is seen, especially when it's from the drivers.
"It's just a nice achievement, and it was a nice surprise."
The award was delivered by Phil Roe, President of Logistics UK.
Truck stops are essential to the daily lives of drivers, providing critical facilities and ensuring safety during required breaks, as Roe explained.
"Eighty percent of goods in the UK are transported by road. Quality facilities are crucial for drivers who work hard transporting goods," said Rowe.
He added that there was a need for more investment in the area, saying:
“Professional drivers are the backbone of the UK economy, and truck stops provide an invaluable service as they keep goods moving around the country.
"Ashford International is a deserving winner, but facilities of this standard are still too often the exception rather than the rule.
"Drivers should be able to take their legally mandated rest breaks somewhere safe, secure and fit for purpose, and we need to see greater recognition of that in both national planning and investment.”
Both Smith and Roe highlighted the importance of security at these stops, with Ashford International Truck Stop leading in safety measures with patrolling guards and 60 cameras.
They emphasised the importance of making truck stops a secure and welcoming space, especially for female drivers.
Roe added, "Nothing moves in the UK without logistics. The workforce in logistics supports us all, and providing them with excellent facilities is the least we can do."