Family Business United Spotlights Rising Talent For NAW2026

Family Business United (FBU) has launched a nationwide campaign to highlight the contribution of apprentices working within family-owned firms as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (NAW2026).

Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of FBU, said the initiative aims to celebrate both the scale and significance of apprenticeships across the sector. “We wanted to showcase the depth and diversity of apprentices working in family firms across the UK,” he explained.

“Family firms are the engine room of the UK economy and focus on the long term, investing in all aspects of their businesses as they seek to build sustainable businesses for generations to come. Investing in apprentices is a key aspect of this investment, and it is a pleasure to share stories about apprentices working in family firms this week in particular.”

One of the businesses taking part is the John Good Group, a sixth-generation family enterprise founded in 1833. What began as a ship chandlery in Hull has grown into a multifaceted organisation specialising in logistics, shipping, travel, and e-commerce. Guided by its philosophy of “Growing Businesses Together,” the company places strong emphasis on long-term performance, responsible business practices and community support through the Matthew Good Foundation.

CEO Adam Walsh said apprentices play a central role in the organisation’s future. “We invest in apprentices because they are the future of our organisation,” he said. “In a family business with over 190 years of history, longevity relies on constant evolution, and apprentices bring the fresh perspectives, digital fluency and hunger to learn that challenge us to think differently. They are not just trainees; they are a vital investment in our culture, helping us bridge the gap between our traditional values and the modern skills needed to drive our business forward for the next generation.”

Among those thriving within the group is Hannah Hopkins, who joined as an apprentice in 2022 and now works as an admin clerk. Her training has included a Level 3 qualification in Business Administration and a Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, programmes she says have broadened her skills and strengthened her confidence.

As Hannah explains, “My apprenticeship has provided me with skills such as communication, IT and project support which I can use throughout the organisation,” she said.

“I chose an apprenticeship because I was changing career paths and preferred practical learning over full-time study. It also provided the bonus of getting paid while learning the skills and knowledge needed to continue throughout the company.”

Hopkins completed her first apprenticeship in 2023 and continued her training in 2024 with accounting studies, which she passed in December 2025. She said the support of her colleagues has been key to her progress. “I wanted to continue learning new things while being able to progress and stay within the company. I was encouraged by my peers to do so, which made me feel supported.”

She added that working for a family business has offered a sense of belonging not always found elsewhere. “There’s a real sense of trust because decisions are made with people in mind rather than just profit. The atmosphere is more relaxed and personal, and I’ve had the chance to help in different areas because the company encourages you to get stuck in."

"There is a feeling of stability and pride in working here—decisions are made with long-term effects in mind, so it is great to be part of something built to last.”

As Family Business United continues its National Apprenticeship Week campaign, Hopkins’ experience stands as a powerful example of the opportunities family firms create for emerging talent, and the value apprentices bring in return.