Celebrating Apprentices Driving Forward Family Firms Like Hendy

Family Business United (FBU) is marking National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (NAW2026) by celebrating the vital contribution apprentices make within family-owned businesses across the UK.

Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of FBU, said the campaign shines a spotlight on both the depth of talent emerging from family firms and the long-term outlook that defines the sector. “Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy,” he said. “They take a long-term view, investing across their operations as they seek to build sustainable businesses for generations to come."

"Investing in apprentices is a key part of that commitment, and it is a pleasure to share the stories of apprentices working in family firms during National Apprenticeship Week.”

Among the businesses featured in the campaign is the Hendy Group, a family enterprise with a proud history dating back to 1859. Founded by Frederick Adolphus Hendy in Whitchurch, Hampshire, the business originally made and sold bicycles before moving into the motor trade in 1898 through partnerships with Benz and Bolle. In 1910, Hendy’s became Britain’s first Ford dealer and continues to represent the brand today.

Paul Whettingsteel, Training and Development Assessor at the Hendy Group, said the company remains firmly focused on the future. “The motor industry is fast-moving and full of opportunity,” he explained. “Our apprentices are an integral part of Hendy’s future plans, bringing new people, practices and processes into the business as we continue to evolve.”

One of those helping to shape the next chapter of the business is Izzey Moreland, a third-year apprentice based at the group’s Horsham Mazda dealership. Known within the business as Elizabeth, or Izzey, she is recognised as a people-focused technician who understands the importance of combining hands-on ability with strong academic skills.

“My apprenticeship gives me real-world, hands-on experience and practical skills that help me grow every day,” she said. “The academy training is just as important. During my course I’ve been able to gain knowledge, turn it into qualifications and build the foundations for a long-term career in a growing industry. It also opens up opportunities to progress and train in specialised areas.”

As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated environment, Izzey believes her apprenticeship has been particularly empowering. “It’s opened doors and challenged expectations,” she said.

“It’s given me the chance to prove my capabilities, become a role model and help pave the way for future generations. Being the only female apprentice in my workshop has been a positive experience. I’m treated no differently at all, and the support from everyone I work with makes it a great place to be.”

As National Apprenticeship Week 2026 continues, stories like Izzey's reinforce the message at the heart of Family Business United’s campaign: apprentices are not only building successful careers for themselves, but also helping to secure the future and legacy of the UK’s family businesses for generations to come.