Family Business United Celebrates Apprentices Driving the Future of Family Firms

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 highlights 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 focus on the long term, investing in all aspects of their operations as they seek to build sustainable businesses for generations to come. Investing in apprentices is a key part of this commitment, and it is a pleasure to share the stories of apprentices working in family firms during National Apprenticeship Week.”

Among the businesses taking part in the campaign is the Hendy Group, a family business with roots dating back to 1859. Founded by Frederick Adolphus Hendy in Whitchurch, Hampshire, the company began by making and selling bicycles before transitioning 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 business 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 company is Logan May, an Apprentice Technician based in Fareham, Hampshire. Now in his third year as a Ford technician apprentice, Logan is known for his positive attitude and enthusiasm for learning, always keen to take on the next challenge in the workshop.

“Working in a long-standing family business allows me to see how the company has moved with the times and progressed over the years,” Logan said.

“Like my apprenticeship, I need to look ahead and explore new technologies and innovations in this fast-paced trade.”

As National Apprenticeship Week 2026 continues, stories like Logan May’s underline 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.