Hermes UK has launched an apprenticeship scheme to tackle the driver shortage and ensure a pipeline of talent for the company.
Dubbed the Road to Logistics, the programme, which is funded through the company’s Apprenticeship Levy, will see Hermes recruit a number of apprentices with no driving experience and train them to achieve their C and C&E licences.
As the latter does not currently attract funding under levy rules, Hermes will be paying for the C&E part of the apprenticeship.
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The scheme, which is open to applicants of any age, takes 12 months to complete and includes both theory and practical sessions. It will be supported by Seetec, Hermes’ training provider.
All successful participants will be offered roles as drivers within Hermes’ hubs at Warrington and Rugby.
Hub drivers at Hermes operate Cat C&E vehicles at its two central hubs in Warrington and Rugby. The hubs receive parcels from retailers that are then sorted to be delivered to its depots, before another sortation and final deliver to consumers.
The successful apprentices will be responsible for collecting and delivering goods to depots, sub depots and retailers within a geographical area on completion of their training.
In a statement Hermes said the programme is “designed to ensure the company has its own talent pipeline and is prepared for any future legislation and possible Brexit impact”.