Sector skills council Improve has commissioned the first piece of UK-wide research that will highlight the benefits of training in the food and drink manufacturing industry.

To be carried out by the Centre for Labour Market Studies (CLMS) at the University of Leicester, the four-month study will involve a comprehensive survey of more than 200 food and drink manufacturers and will pull together relevant findings from existing research dedicated to the value of skills. Detailed case studies will also be prepared to provide real-life examples of the benefits of investing in skills.

Jack Matthews, chief executive of Improve, said: “The importance of skills is often recognised by employers, but many aren’t sure exactly how the benefits of training may impact on their business. The purpose of this study is to enhance employers’ understanding of the value of skills in business, and to provide the evidence companies need when they are considering whether to invest in skills.”

Food and drink is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, employing 500,000 people in more than 11,000 workplaces, with a turnover of £74 billion per year. However, more than half the workforce is not qualified above Level Two and 28 per cent lack any basic skills.