Retail, wholesale and distribution firm AF Blakemore aims to recruit 40 “rising stars” a year and put them through its Logistics Apprenticeship Programme.

The first five began their apprenticeship in May. Blakemore will take on 10 more in July in conjunction with training provider Performance Through People.

A spokeswoman said the aim was to recruit 10 apprentices every quarter to help those who want to build a career in logistics or transport.

Stewart Constable, Blakemore Logistics general manager, said: “The programme offers support as well as the full commitment of AF Blakemore to deliver opportunities to those who wish to succeed.”

The apprentice programme is expected to last a year. It will focus on warehouse skills, including assembling, loading and fork-lift truck driving.

Steve Morgan, warehouse manager, said apprentices were not under pressure to perform while on the scheme. It was “more about presenting the right attitude to learn and the willingness to contribute” to the business’s success.