3 MIN READ
With annual sales of 11 billion GBP, the UK packaging industry has witnessed significant growth that substantially exceeds the current talent pool.
Begging the question – how can we keep innovating and creating that eye-catching, safe and sustainable packaging that companies need to entice customers?
The Skills Gap
Before COVID-19 the packaging industry was suffering with skill gaps as far back as 2019, when the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) announced the manufacturing industry was in the grip of the biggest shortage in 30 years.
We knew then that more apprenticeships, upskilling within businesses and hiring similar skillsets with access to paid training were necessary to ensure requirements were met.
“The growth of E-commerce, personalisation of products and the ever-increasing demand for environmentally friendly materials has created a new strain on the industry’s resources.”
James Blyth, Head of Manufacturing & Engineering at Denholm Associates
Down the line
When the pressure is on to hire a highly specialised skillset, your first inclination probably won’t be to start an apprenticeship programme. But partnering with a university or training academy to help create the workforce you’ll need one day very soon is a great way to recruit talent.
TOP TIP
These institutions offer training for apprentices and even courses to upskill your existing team:
If you decide to partner with a university, be sure to evaluate the skills you require and communicate this to your education partners so courses can be updated and designed to meet the industry’s needs.
Obviously, this isn’t going to resolve your imminent hiring needs but it is an essential step in your overarching talent strategy.
The Fear
We understand that most businesses who deliver luxury FMCG products want that distinct experience present in their shortlists. It’s less of a risk and investment.
Or is it? Packaging Technologists are in such high demand, salaries have increased by 18% when you could hire a NPD Manager or Quality Engineer, in half the time, with the same attention to detail and methodical approach.
Any manufacturing environment where materials are being tested and quality checked is an area that can be mined for talent with similar skillsets and behaviours.
We recently added a Quality Engineer, with experience in testing glass, to the packaging team at a renowned whisky business. Its progressive businesses that think outside the box (pun intended!) that will thrive.
TOP TIP
Think about hiring from these similar functions instead:
- Quality Engineering
- New Product Development
- Materials technology
Talk to Denholm
Still not sure? Don’t worry. We’re happy to do the heavy-lifting. Our expertise and network in Packaging Technology, Quality, NPD and Engineering will deliver the high-performing talent you need.
So if you have a permanent or interim requirement, need some help scoping a brief, or you are simply looking for some up to date market insight in an ever-changing landscape, we are ready to help. Contact us on 03303 359 818 or connect@denholmassociates.com today.
