Five new apprentice drivers on the road for The Co-op

The retail brand has awarded the newly qualified Class 1 HGV drivers with their licences and welcomed into the fold of its 129-strong driving workforce.

Operating from the Co-operative Food Supply Chain Logistics warehouse at Drum Industrial Estate, the drivers serve stores throughout the North of England from Yorkshire, Cumbria, and Northumberland.

They joined the company’s driver apprenticeship scheme, to boost driver numbers following the Covid-19 pandemic.

The scheme allows apprentices to learn the skills needed to work within the Co-op through a combination of practical training and online learning. It also matches them with a buddy so they have access to peer-level support at all times.

Transport Shift Manager, Sarah Hall, said: “The five joined us in January 2022 and their drive and determination just shows what can be achieved when you really put your mind to it. Three were already colleagues at the Co-op in various roles and two joined us externally, and we’re thrilled to welcome them all aboard.

“We received a lot of interest in our driver apprenticeship programme and, although the cohort for the North of England is full, we may look to recruit again at a later time.

“The transport sector needs long-term sustainable change, and the Co-op is leading the way by investing in people and offering this training to candidates from all backgrounds. All you need to apply is a full driving licence and the desire to learn new skills.”

See more about the driver apprentice scheme.