Holiday homes giant Willerby has launched its biggest apprenticeship recruitment drive in its 75-year history.
More than 30 will be taken on across a range of roles, three times more than on any previous occasion as the sector booms.
The Hull-headquartered team said the move reflects the rapid growth of the business, driven by the increasing popularity of the UK staycation.
It follows a major recruitment drive for a new production line to meet the surging demand for high quality holiday homes.
Willerby chief executive Peter Munk said: “Our business continues to grow and this huge intake of apprentices is the next step in our drive to meet increasing demand for holiday homes, as well as developing fresh new talent for our business and industry.
“More and more people are now discovering the significant benefits of staycations and short breaks in the UK and embracing the holiday home lifestyle.
“It’s a very exciting time for the sector and we’re delighted to be able to offer these fantastic opportunities, which will help futureproof our business for years to come.”
The latest roles include Level Two and Level Three apprenticeships in carpentry, finance, engineering, IT, electrical, marketing and customer care.
Willerby will be partnering with Hull Business Training Centre and East Riding College to deliver the apprenticeships, from September, building on existing relationships with providers.
Ahead of July’s new production line launch, almost 100 roles have been filled, swelling Willerby’s workforce to more than 1,100.
The business currently produces 7,500 holiday homes, lodges and residential park homes each year and the new facility will increase capacity to more than 8,000.
Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy has welcomed the news.
She said: “As we all know, the caravan industry is an important employer in our region, especially following the pandemic.
“As Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Apprenticeships, I feel it’s hugely important for young people to have a variety of career paths, and having high quality apprenticeships is crucial.
“I will continue to champion the importance of apprenticeships in Parliament and it’s good to see these opportunities arising in our local area.”
A careers open day for those interested in working at Willerby will take place at its showground in Hull from 9.30am to 2pm on Saturday, July 17, with a particular focus on the apprenticeships.
Attendees will be able to meet members of the senior management team, have a tour of the factory and view Willerby’s completed holiday homes, lodges and residential park homes.
