A BRAND new purpose-built training facility for the food industry has been officially opened in Redditch.

The facility, run by training provider, MGTS (Midland Group Training Services), was opened by MP Rachel Maclean earlier this month.

Ms Maclean said: "I was inspired by the apprentices I spoke to who are a real credit to MGTS. They are our future workforce and it's fantastic to see young people in Redditch being trained locally, giving local businesses a highly skilled, high quality pool of talent to choose from."

David Bridgens, MGTS chief executive, said: “The UK needs skilled engineers so we’re developing the necessary skills and supporting industry to recruit a trained workforce. For apprentices, it really is a fantastic time to pursue a career in food process manufacturing, with plenty of exciting opportunities. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

MGTS train apprentices for some of the country’s leading food manufacturers, such as Müller, Arla, Ferrero, Dairy Crest, Morrisons and Heineken.

It is hoped the move will help the whole of the food and drink industry to recruit much needed, highly skilled engineers.

The investment in the Redditch training facility has seen an area of 355 sq m (3,821 sq ft) devoted to apprenticeship training for the food industry, refurbishing and equipping this space with industry standard equipment.