Leonard’s drivers blow away the competition

Refrigerated carrier celebrates its ‘highway heroes’ during Driver Appreciation Week with hats, gift cards—and battery-electric blowers.

Commercial Vehicle Staff

Sept. 22, 2022

2 min read

Leonard’s Express celebrated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week by giving its hard-working “highway heroes” hats, gift cards—and battery-electric leaf blowers.

The refrigerated carrier said the blowers are ideal for clearing out drivers’ trailers.

“We like to say we appreciate our drivers every week,” said Ken Johnson, Leonard’s Express CEO, “But [Driver Appreciation Week] is the week dedicated to celebrating that appreciation. Along with the American Trucking Association and the entire trucking industry, we recognize the 3.6 million professional truck drivers that are out on the road nationwide. Professional truck drivers deliver 70% of America’s annual freight.

Leonard's Express drivers could pick a leaf blower as part of their haul during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.

“These men and women log over 400 billion miles every year, moving over 10 billion tons of goods.”

Leonard’s Express worked with its internal Driver Advisory Board to offer a variety of gifts based on drivers’ needs during Driver Appreciation Week, held Sept. 11-17. They received a customized windbreaker or hat, and one of the following:

A pet package, which included a leash, plastic bags, and $50 Chewy gift card
A $75 gift card
A leaf blower
Leonard’s Express “Thank You” cards.

In addition, each of Leonard’s Express’ terminals in New York, Delaware, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Idaho hosted its own celebration. Activities included breakfasts, bag lunches, barbecue, food trucks, and gift cards.

“The efficiency and safety that these drivers provide allow businesses and the general public to confidently and safely ship goods across state lines and to every corner of the country—which our economy fully depends on,” Johnson said.