Report Unveils UK’s Leading Family Business Apprentice Employers

Family Business United (FBU) has today released its annual report celebrating the UK’s top family business apprentice employers, highlighting the crucial role family firms are playing in supporting the next generation of skilled workers.

Now in its fourth year, the report recognises the outstanding commitment of 24 family-owned businesses across the UK to apprenticeship schemes, showcasing their investment in future talent, skills development, and long-term workforce sustainability.

Key Highlights from the 2025 Report:

• Bagnalls named the Top Family Business Apprentice Employer in the UK.

• JCB recognised for employing the highest number of apprentices.

• Scot JCB holds the highest proportion of apprentices in its workforce.

• The top 24 employers collectively support 776 apprentices across the UK.

• 369 new apprenticeships were created in the year to June 2025.

• 354 apprentices successfully graduated during the same period.

Celebrating Excellence in Apprenticeship Programmes

Submissions were received from family businesses operating in all regions of the UK. The final list represents those who demonstrated exceptional dedication to creating new opportunities, supporting apprenticeship completions, and embedding learning and development within their operations.

The Top 10 UK Family Business Apprentice Employers for 2025

1. Bagnalls

2. Shepherd Neame

3. Scot JCB

4. JCB

5. Ernest Doe & Sons

6. JW Lees & Co

7. Harrison Catering Services

8. The Clancy Group

9. GAP Group

10. Arco

The full report published lists 24 family business apprentice employers and these organisations span a wide range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, food and drink, motor retail, marine services, and more—illustrating the breadth of apprenticeship opportunities now available beyond traditional sectors.

A Growing Commitment to Apprenticeship Excellence

“Family businesses are innovative and entrepreneurial, and it is great to see so many providing apprenticeships within their organisations,” said Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United.

“This is our fourth report, and it clearly highlights the growing importance of apprenticeships to family firms across the UK. These businesses are not only creating jobs but are investing in the skills and careers of future leaders.”

He continued: “There are significant apprenticeship opportunities in the UK’s family business sector, offering fantastic pathways into lifelong careers—some even leading to board-level roles."

"It is a privilege to shine a light on the positive contribution family businesses are making to apprenticeships, workforce development, and the wider economy.”

Download the Full Report here:

Family Business Apprenticeship Report 2025 v1 Published.pdf

Download PDF • 1.07MB

For sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 campaign, or to contribute data for next year’s report, please contact the team at FBU using the form here