How Apprentices Are Helping Build Stronger Businesses.

A Chat with Glen Pettitt, Branch Manager at BEW Colchester

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026 we are celebrating employers who are investing in the future of their workforce by creating meaningful apprenticeship opportunities.

For Employer Tuesday we caught up with Glen Pettitt, Branch Manager at BEW Colchester, to hear about his experience of taking on an apprentice for the very first time and the impact it’s had on his business.

Taking the First Step with an Apprentice

BEW Colchester is a relatively new branch, and Harry Hulburt became their very first apprentice. For Glen and the team, the decision to take on an apprentice was less about experience on paper and more about finding the right person.

“As long as we got the right individual character, we felt that between everyone here we could all lend different skills and experiences to help Harry learn in a way that benefits BEW and Harry at the same time”

This highlights one of the biggest strengths of apprenticeships- the ability to shape and develop someone to fit your business, your culture and your way of working.

Training the BEW Way

Glen explained that one of the advantages of employing a young apprentice is being able to train them from the ground up, without having to unpick old habits.

“Certain people will come with ways that they have always done things. With Harry we could show him the way that works for us and that sets a standard for how we do things moving forward.”

This has helped BEW Colchester build consistency across their operations while also giving Harry a strong foundation in how the business is run.

Overcoming Initial Concerns

Like many employers, Glen admits he had some natural concerns before taking on an apprentice, particularly around age and maturity.

“I know what I was like at 18! But Harry was a very mature young person. For us, it’s more about who you are as a person than how long you’ve been in the industry.”

By focusing on attitude, work ethic, and personality, BEW Colchester found an apprentice who fitted seamlessly into the team.

Watching an Apprentice Grow

Over time Glen has seen Harry develop key strengths that are critical in a warehouse and supply chain environment. Especially accuracy and attention to detail.

“At first it was all speed and enthusiasm, which is great. But over time, his attention to detail has really grown. In goods in and goods out, accuracy is vital. Slowing down slightly to make sure it’s done right makes a huge difference.”

Confidence has also grown, alongside a stronger understanding of how his role impacts the wider business and customers.

Building For the Future

For BEW Colchester, apprenticeships are a key part of long-term workforce planning. By developing talent internally, the business is creating a pipeline of skilled, knowledgeable employees who can grow alongside the company.

“It’s about retention, progression, and supporting people to grow within the business.”

Apprenticeships allow employers to invest in people who can be developed to meet future business needs, helping to build loyalty, reduce recruitment challenges, and support succession planning. As apprentices progress, they become well-placed to step into more senior or specialist roles, bringing with them a deep understanding of the company’s standards, culture, and expectations.

A Distinction and a Permanent Role

Harry recently completed his Supply Chain Warehouse Operative apprenticeship and achieved a distinction. A fantastic achievement and a testament to his hard work and the support around him. Even better, he has now been taken on permanently by the branch.

This is exactly what success looks like for many employers. Developing talent internally and retaining skilled, motivated staff who already understand the business.

Would Glen Recommend Apprenticeships?

The answer is a resounding yes.

“100%. We’ve learned along the way as well, but the support from EDA Apprenticeships Plus has been brilliant. We will definitely be doing this again.”

Now, the bar has been set and the next apprentice will have some big shoes to fill!