News

October 30, 2009

Consumers more likely to buy from firms offering apprenticeships

More than 80 per cent of consumers said they would be more likely to buy from a business if it offered an apprenticeship scheme, research for the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) has revealed.

The YouGov survey, for the NAS, found that while slightly more consumers (81 per cent) said having a fair trade agreement with suppliers was an incentive to buy from a business, fewer (77 per cent) would favour using a firm if it had strong environmental credentials.

The NAS' chief executive, Simon Waugh, said that apprenticeships are one way firms can stand out from the crowd. "We are considering ways that businesses can highlight their credentials to make the most of the excellent public perceptions of apprenticeships," he said.

"An apprenticeship e-badge for employers is currently being developed and will be launched mid-November 2009," added Waugh. "This will allow businesses to demonstrate that they support young people and take on apprentices".

According to the NAS, the benefits of taking on apprentices extend beyond the positive attitudes among the public. "The Government also provides funding towards the training costs for apprentices and support for employers who are recruiting and training a candidate," said Waugh.

• For more information about taking on an apprentice, download the 'The proven way to train your workforce' on the NAS website