An action plan aimed at boosting skills in Scotland’s £14billion-plus food and drink industry was launched by the Scottish Government yesterday.
It is hoped the new Skills Investment Plan will help businesses find fresh talent and develop leadership and management skills, while boosting growth through innovation and efficiency.
The sector is forecast to need 27,000 entrants over the next 10 years, with a growing emphasis on higher-skilled and professional positions.
Brexit poses a particular threat, because of the large number of firms currently relying on EU nationals to fill positions.
Launching the plan during a visit to Dawnfresh Seafoods in Uddingston, near Glasgow, Rural Economy and Connectivity Secretary Fergus Ewing said: “Scotland has a burgeoning reputation for quality food and drink and the sector is recognised as a key growth area for our economy.
“However, we are aware of the challenges posed by the current economic uncertainty, particularly in the wake of the Brexit vote.
“It is vital that the Scottish Government, together with industry and stakeholders, are aligned in order to meet these challenges, one of which is continuing access to the skills and talent required to deliver projected growth.
“I welcome the launch of this Skills and Investment Plan for the food and drink industry, which will increase access to training and development opportunities and support innovation across the sector.”
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) played a key role in developing the new blueprint.
SDS senior service and delivery director Neville Prentice said: “There is a growing demand within Scotland’s food and drink sector for the higher level skills that will allow employers to boost productivity, improve efficiency and make use of new technologies.
“Workforce development is central to fulfilling this demand, and also to help employers deal with the uncertainties arising from factors such as Brexit.
“The new Skills Investment Plan offers a framework through which we can invest in the future of the sector and help businesses of all sizes grasp opportunities for growth in an increasingly global and competitive marketplace.”
Dawnfresh, whose operations include several fish farms in Argyll and a processing factory in Grantown, has taken on nearly 300 modern apprentices since 2012 and has its own management and leadership skills academy.
Alastair Salvesen, the firm’s chairman, said: “Dawnfresh has a long-term commitment towards developing the skills of our employees and encouraging life-long learning.
“This has clear benefits for Dawnfresh as it creates a team of skilled, loyal and empowered people who can drive growth and innovation.
“This is a major factor in the future of Dawnfresh and we are pleased to see these values reflected in the new Skills Investment Plan.”