MP Rachel Reeves Visits Allied Glass in Leeds

British Glass, through its Glass Academy training and skills development initiative, has worked in partnership with Allied Glass on increasing apprenticeship numbers at the company.The Glass Academy is an initiative co-funded by the Government’s Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot and the glass industry.The key objectives are to boost apprenticeship numbers, develop more effective links between employers, training providers and learners and to up-skill the current workforce. This will enable the sector to compete in manufacturing markets on a global scale and secure the future of an industry currently worth an estimated £2.5billion to the UK annually.

Allied itself is a forward thinking company and has invested £15 million into the factory over the last three years on its training facilities, 3d printing technology, a new furnace and new decoration facility to strengthen its capabilities and create new packaging solutions to meet the needs of the drinks industry.

The Shadow Secretary of State met with the Directors of Allied and The Glass Academy and was given a tour of the factory before meeting a group of apprentices and employees.

Rachel Reeves said: “We know that the best results for creating a skilled workforce come when educators and employers work together so it has been fascinating to see that in action at Allied, meeting young people who are just starting out in the industry."

Dave Dalton, CEO of British Glass and The Glass Academy, added: “It’s been fantastic to show Ms Reeves first-hand how we, acting on behalf of the employers in our industry, are working to build the future leaders of manufacturing in the UK through investment in innovation and training.”

Alan Henderson, CEO of Allied Glass said: “Working in close collaboration with The Glass Academy to deliver tailored apprenticeships in combination with our own investment in the company will ensure we are prepared for the future challenges and opportunities the industry faces. We were delighted to welcome Rachel Reeves here to provide her with an insight into the glass manufacturing sector.”