Sainsbury's is launching the Sainsbury's Supplier Trainee Partnerships, an innovative programme that will help over 100 people find work in the coming year.

The Partnerships will be operated in conjunction with 60 of Sainsbury's top construction, engineering, facilities management and retail suppliers and will provide real training opportunities for people in trades that, due to the economic downturn, have suffered a shortage of labour and investment.

Successful applicants will receive a 12 month paid contract to work for one of the 60 suppliers on a variety of Sainsbury's projects including developing new stores and redeveloping existing sites. Candidates will enjoy constant support from Sainsbury's and the suppliers whilst regular assessments will ensure that all the participants make real progress. The trainee will receive hands on experience and be exposed to a range of new skills.


The initiative, which starts in July, is open to all unemployed people and it is hoped that all of the trainees will gain full employment from the supplier or enter into higher education once the programme has been completed.

Neil Sachdev, Sainsbury's Commercial Director, said: "We have very ambitious and exciting growth plans which, combined with the excellent relationships we have with our suppliers, means we are able to offer these great trainee opportunities. This programme is a real chance for candidates to enjoy a year of unrivalled on-the-job training with companies that are leaders in their fields.

"This is a groundbreaking initiative and we hope that other companies will follow our lead in getting the country working as well as providing meaningful opportunities for unemployed people."

(CD)