Mercedes Benz will be among the businesses offering careers to young people at a new apprenticeship exhibition.

The car dealer is one of more than 70 employers which will be at the Kent Event Centre in Detling for two days as part of the National Apprenticeship Show.

The firm has run an apprentice recruitment programme for more than 20 years.

It retains 65% of the scheme’s participants 10 years after they have completed the training, with 91% going on to further qualifications and promotions.

The business pays the apprenticeship levy, a tax on companies with annual wage bills of more than £3 million, which they can claim back if the money is invested in training apprentices.

Recruitment manager Judy Wilkins said: “The introduction of the levy has not deterred us – apprentices are ideal for our long-term recruitment strategy.

“The National Apprenticeship Show events give us a great opportunity to speak to interested candidates about opportunities that apprenticeships might offer them.

“All the businesses that attend these events are passionate about apprenticeships and no matter what the question might be, they will do everything they can to support and help young people find suitable career options for them.”

The National Apprenticeship Show takes place from Tuesday to Wednesday, March 20 to 21.

Its managing director Simon Bennie said: “Our shows give employers an opportunity to inspire young people and discuss how apprenticeships could work for them.”

Details at nationalapprenticeshipshow.org/kentessex