Top Retail Apprenticeship Employers: A Look at the Leading Companies

When it comes to kick-starting a career in the retail industry, apprenticeships provide an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience, learn new skills, and earn recognised qualifications. In this article, we will explore the top retail apprenticeship employers, highlighting their offerings, employee percentages, and the number of new apprentice starters from 2022 to 2023.

 

At the 22nd spot, we have Specsavers, a renowned eyewear retailer. Specsavers stands out by offering apprenticeship levels 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, providing individuals with a comprehensive learning experience. Their apprenticeship scheme is designed to help employees develop the necessary skills to achieve their potential while working towards a nationally recognized qualification. In March 2023, 2.7% of Specsavers' employees were apprentices, and an impressive 700 new starters joined their apprenticeship program during 2022-2023.

 

Amazon, a leading global e-commerce giant, secures the 25th rank on the list of top apprentice employers. Known for its vast operations, Amazon offers apprenticeships across its UK business, providing on-the-job coaching and specialized partner training. By the end of an apprentice's program, they gain valuable commercial experience and associated qualifications. With apprenticeship levels ranging from 2 to 7, Amazon reported that 2.2% of its employees in March 2023 were apprentices. Remarkably, they welcomed 1,092 new apprentice starters from 2022 to 2023.

 

Tesco, a prominent supermarket chain, holds the 59th position among the top retail apprenticeship employers. Tesco's apprenticeship scheme covers levels 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, focusing on building individuals' skills through real-life experiences, workshops, resources, and mentorship from colleagues. In March 2023, 0.5% of Tesco's employees were apprentices, and the company welcomed 680 new starters into their apprenticeship program from 2022 to 2023.

 

Screwfix, the leading UK retailer of trade tools, secures the 69th spot on the list. Offering apprenticeship levels 2, 3, 4, and 5, Screwfix demonstrates a strong commitment to apprenticeship programs. Impressively, 5% of their employees were apprentices, and they welcomed 367 new apprenticeship starters from 2022 to 2023.

 

Iceland Foods, a prominent food retailer, ranks 70th among the top retail apprenticeship employers. With apprenticeship levels 2, 3, 4, and 6 on offer, Iceland Foods provides an opportunity for individuals to develop their skills while working in the food retail industry. In March 2023, 3.6% of their employees were apprentices, and they welcomed 521 new apprentice starters from 2022 to 2023.

 

B&Q, a well-known home improvement and garden retailer, secures the 78th position on the list. Offering apprenticeship levels 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7, B&Q provides a comprehensive apprenticeship scheme that allows individuals to acquire knowledge, skills, and recognised qualifications. In March 2023, 3.4% of their employees were apprentices, and the company welcomed 542 new starters to their apprenticeship program from 2022 to 2023.

 

Finally, we have John Lewis Partnership, which ranks 84th on the table. With apprenticeship levels 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7, John Lewis has developed a market-leading apprentice program that enables partners to learn while working. In March 2023, 1.4% of their employees were apprentices, and the company welcomed 675 new apprentice starters from 2022 to 2023.

 

These top retail apprenticeship employers demonstrate their commitment to nurturing talent and providing valuable opportunities for individuals to develop their skills and careers. Apprenticeships not only offer practical experience but also provide the chance to earn recognized qualifications, setting the foundation for long-term success in the retail industry.