Belhaven owner Greene King wants 10,000 more apprentices

Belhaven owner Greene King today pledged to take on 10,000 apprentices over the next three years, writes Scott Reid.

Picture: contributed

The brewing and pubs giant said that by 2019 it expects to have supported more than 17,000 apprentices in just eight years. It follows last year’s commitment to hire 2,000 apprentices in the 12 months to March – a pledge that has been exceeded.

The group, which is headquartered in Suffolk, employs some 42,000 people following the recent acquisition of Spirit Pub Company and operates about 3,100 pubs, restaurants and hotels across England, Scotland and Wales. Retail brands include Hungry Horse, Old English Inns, Chef & Brewer and Flaming Grill.

Chief executive Rooney Anand said: “The fact that we are now aiming to hit a higher target of 10,000 is a reflection that as a leader within the UK’s hospitality industry, we believe we have a responsibility to support young people by creating these opportunities to earn and learn.”