ENGLAND - Aldi is taking an innovative approach to supporting the supply chain after recently announcing that it will fund a further 60 produce industry apprenticeships over the next two years. This strategy comes in partnership with Management Development Services (MDS), and bolsters both companies' missions to support future talent in the ag sector.

“The MDS scheme is highly respected and provides an excellent pathway for promising talent to achieve their potential within the sector, which is why we are pleased to be funding a further sixty apprenticeships over the next two years,” commented Kelly Stokes, Recruitment Director at Aldi UK.“The success of the program is evident, with a number of MDS graduates now employed at Aldi to help us continue to deliver high-quality fresh produce at unbeatable prices.”

MDS’ program provides industry training, including a graduate apprenticeship scheme, which Aldi has supported since 2016. The trainees will develop management and leadership skills while learning the ropes in a range of positions, including supply chain, marketing, and technical and operations, a press release explained.

“Our combination of on-the-job learning, alongside a chartered qualification, equips trainees with invaluable management and leadership skills to help them begin fulfilling careers within the food and fresh produce industries, which are crying for out for ambitious, capable new recruits,” remarked MDS Chair Christine Tacon. “Aldi’s ongoing support is testament to the quality of graduates that the scheme produces, and we look forward to continuing to work with them.”

Aldi has already taken on five permanent employees from previous MDS intakes, and plans to support two existing colleagues through the apprenticeship program in 2021. Thus far, the retailer has invested roughly £1 million ($1.39 million) over six years.

This unique approach raises questions of retail’s position in ag, as Aldi is funneling leadership directly from the produce industry.

Will we see this type of investment in the United States? AndNowUKnow will continue to be on the lookout.

Aldi