Having worked in fresh produce for several years now, I’ve noticed a wealth of knowledge in individuals, many of whom have dedicated their lives to this most dynamic and fascinating industry. Being given the opportunity to learn from such people, and empowered to use that learnt knowledge, is something I’m grateful for.
But there does seem to be a disparity between the young and old. With long career longevity of those within fresh produce, succession is critical to ensure a healthy and thriving industry.
With the next generation comes new ideas and enthusiasm that can bring about positive change, and businesses should not be afraid of this. I first entered fresh produce through a government funded scheme called the Knowledge Transfer Partnership, and I’ve met several individuals who have come through the MDS programme, and who are currently on apprenticeships.
At a recent Food and Drink Federation-hosted careers seminar in London, I had the opportunity to hear the thoughts of three young and enthusiastic apprentices, all working within the food sector. They praised their employers for providing help and support while going through their training. But in securing their apprenticeships their advice fortifies my own: that giving young people work experience opportunities helps enormously in their understanding of business, and in helping to secure that all important first job.
It certainly helped me, and we as an industry should all be as proactive as possible in encouraging this to give young people that golden opportunity and an appetite for working in the fresh produce sector. If we don’t, young talent may be lost to competition from other food industries that are perceived to be more rewarding, although they may not be.
Whether recruiting young people directly, or through a supported scheme, what is important is portraying how exciting the category is. Fresh produce is unique, and I think the story of how that apple in your fruit bowl or how the potato on your plate gets to be there is both intriguing and quite remarkable.
We should be doing all we can to inspire and engage with people from an early age, and I’m a big supporter of getting them involved at a school level through such initiatives as the Potato Council’s Grow Your Own Potatoes, which is an interactive and fun way to learn. Having close relationships with schools and universities, and making decisive efforts to attract new talent when it matters, is key. The next generation may not know what they want until you show it to them.
There are tremendous career opportunities for young people in this industry. I’ve been welcomed into it. How is your business sowing the seeds for the future? -
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