Uniform supplier Workwear Express said its initiative would support new starters in small and medium businesses (SMEs).
The Workwear Express apprenticeship fund will provide four businesses with a package of personalised workwear worth £250. The package could clothe up to 10 apprentices.
General manager Simon Maw spoke of the merits of kitting out apprentices in professional workwear from the offset.
He said: “The value of apprentices to a growing business like ours are huge.
"We have a number of apprentices in a variety of roles within our business. We’re essentially developing our staff to meet both our current and future needs from day one on the job.”
Protecting your brand
As the workwear supplier’s first apprentice 13 years ago, Maw said he had personal experience of the benefits hiring apprentices can bring to a business.
“Our business is built on protecting your brand. We know that having appropriate, high-quality branded uniform for apprentices and new starters ensures that they are giving your customers the right impression of your business from the day they arrive on site.”
Mark Collins, an apprentice in the firm’s key accounts department added: “Having the correct, branded uniform makes apprentices like us feel like part of a team and it also helps your business to look professional, because we can be professionally clothed ambassadors.”
Employers can apply for the apprenticeship fund now, with the application window closing at 12midnight on 21 June. The four businesses will be chosen through a draw.
Last month, British Beer & Pub Association chief executive Brigid Simmonds said the pub sector had led the way in embracing apprenticeships.
