On 9 October, we welcomed employers and sector partners to our Apprenticeship Strategy Event, hosted by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. A chance to reflect, connect, and look ahead. As part of the day, we launched our latest Apprenticeship Survey, capturing the views of Food and Drink businesses across the UK.
At NSAFD, we believe that employer insight is essential to shaping a skills system that works for everyone. That’s why we regularly gather feedback from Food and Drink businesses of all sizes to understand how apprenticeships are being used, where they’re adding value, and where challenges remain.
Our latest survey builds on our 2022 findings, offering a fresh snapshot of employer sentiment in 2025. It highlights what’s changed, what’s stayed consistent, and where the sector is heading next. From rising confidence to sharper calls for flexibility, the data reflects a system in motion, and a community of employers deeply committed to developing talent.
Whether you’re an SME navigating funding rules or a global leader investing in apprenticeships, these insights are for you.
Key highlights include:
- Confidence in apprenticeships has grown, with many employers now viewing them as central to workforce strategy. Larger businesses report strong delivery capability, while SMEs continue to face challenges—particularly around funding complexity, administrative burden, and recruitment support.
- Level 7 apprenticeships have seen a 24% year-on-year increase in uptake, reflecting employer demand for advanced skills and leadership pathways ahead of the 2026 funding changes.
- Recruitment and retention remain key concerns, with employers calling for stronger careers messaging and closer alignment with education providers. There’s also a growing appetite for more flexible, responsive apprenticeship models that reflect real-world business needs.
If you’d like to explore the findings in more detail, or would like to join events like this in the future, get in touch: info@nsafd.co.uk