UK foodservice wholesaler Sysco GB has announced a £500,000 Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Pledge to help small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and charities across the UK access apprenticeship training and “develop essential skills” in their workforces.

Over the past four years, Sysco GB has transferred £350,000 of its Apprenticeship Levy, which it said has enabled local employers to recruit new talent, upskill existing teams, and strengthen capability in key sectors.

This investment aims to support long-term workforce resilience, helping businesses respond to evolving customer needs, new technologies, and ongoing labour shortages. The organisation is hoping that companies applying for its Get Set Supply smaller supplier support programme will also be able to benefit from the Apprenticeship Levy Pledge.

Speaking about Sysco GB’s commitment to building the next generation of talent, Katrina Simpson-Haines, human resources director at Sysco GB, said: “As the UK’s leading foodservice wholesaler, Sysco GB works closely with thousands of SMEs – many of whom play a critical role in hospitality, catering, food production, and logistics.

“We know how challenging it can be for smaller businesses to invest in training and development. By pledging £500,000, and building on the £350,000 we’ve already successfully transferred in recent years, we’re enabling more organisations to access the skills and talent they need to thrive.

“Apprenticeships change lives, drive productivity, and create opportunities across so many of our communities, and we are proud to play our part in supporting our partners across the country.”

Eligible businesses can apply for funding by visiting the Gov.UK pledge page or by contacting the team at earlycareers@sysco.com.