The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) has joined with the organisers of the National Apprenticeship Show to offer BMF members discounted exhibition space at the five apprenticeship shows taking place around the country next year.

Four of the shows take place in March and April, with the final one at the start of the academic year in September. The timing of the first tranche coincides with the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy paid by businesses, which is part of the government’s drive to create 3m new apprenticeships by 2020 to help overcome the growing skills shortage in many sectors. This should give companies an even greater incentive to take on and train the next generation.

As part of its industry youth recruitment campaign, the BMF will be exhibiting at all five National Apprenticeship Shows. By offering discounted rates to bring members together in a dedicated BMF Exhibitor Zone, it hopes to create an impressive and memorable demonstration of the wide variety of career opportunities offered within our industry.

John Newcomb, managing director of the BMF, said: “The National Apprenticeship Shows provide an excellent opportunity to engage with young people and encourage them to enter the merchant industry. With an average footfall of 20,000, each show attracts high-quality visitors, primarily teachers, careers advisors and students considering their career options.

“Many of the students attending events this year were actively weighing up the relative benefits of an apprenticeship over university. They are definitely attracted by the “earn while you learn” apprenticeship message. These shows provide an ideal forum to learn about different industries, and what companies within those industries can offer them.”

The National Apprenticeship Shows will be taking place on the following dates:

  • London and South East, Sandown Park, Esher, 6-7 March 2017
  • Yorkshire and North East, Event Centre, Harrogate, 9-10 March 2017
  • Central, Arena MK, Milton Keynes, 13-14 March 2017
  • South West, Westpoint, Exeter, 19-20 April 2017
  • Manchester and North West, Manchester Central, 16 and 17 October 2017.