Eric Wright Group - apprentice employer case study

In just four years, Eric Wright Group has supported over 174 team members through apprenticeships and vocational programmes, making the development of talent from within a defining part of how they do business. We spoke with Emma Gardner to find out how a long-term investment in people and a partnership with the University of Salford is shaping a stronger, more sustainable workforce.

We asked Emma...

How have apprenticeships supported workforce development, skills growth, or staff retention within your organisation?

Over the past four years, we have supported 174 team members through NVQs, Apprenticeships, and Year in Industry placements, achieving a 95% full-term retention rate within the organisation and strengthening the long-term sustainability and stability of our workforce.

What motivated your organisation to offer apprenticeships, and why did you choose the University of Salford as your training provider?

We have always been driven to offer apprenticeships as part of our long-term commitment to nurturing talent internally and building a sustainable workforce, a vision that has been one of Mr Wright’s core passions since the beginning. We value the opportunity to attract and develop fresh talent from the ground up, enabling them to gain hands-on experience while achieving formal qualifications. Apprenticeships help us address skills gaps and invest in individuals who embody our values and culture from the very beginning.

We selected the University of Salford as our training provider because of its strong industry connections, reputation for delivering high-quality, career-focused programmes, and clear understanding of our needs. The University’s supportive approach and focus on practical, real-world learning closely align with our own objectives.

What are the key benefits apprenticeships bring to your organisation?

Apprenticeships bring long-term value to The Eric Wright Group. They help us grow our own talent and build a strong pipeline of people who understand our values from day one. By developing skills in areas that matter most, we can tackle industry skills gaps head-on while strengthening our future workforce.

They also improve retention, as people are more likely to stay and progress with us when we invest in their development early on. Apprentices bring fresh ideas and up-to-date knowledge into the workplace, boosting productivity and encouraging continuous improvement. Overall, apprenticeships play a key role in building a sustainable, future-ready business.

Based on your experience, would you recommend apprenticeships and the University of Salford to other organisations?

Definitely. I often encourage both young talent and other organisations I deal with to explore apprenticeships and the University.

What advice would you give to organisations considering apprenticeships for the first time?

Approach apprenticeships with an open mind and a long-term perspective. Think of it as an investment in your people and your future, not just a training programme. The beginning will be slow, but the ending will be worth it. Be ready to provide a well-rounded support network, mentorship, and real-world experience, as these are just as important as formal qualifications. Pair this with choosing a training provider that understands your business and can offer practical, career-focused learning. Most importantly, be patient and committed; the results, in terms of skilled, loyal, and motivated employees, are well worth it.