Three young people have been hired as apprentices by a growing vehicle parts distribution company that has launched a scheme to support its expansion.

Automotive Distributors (ADL), based in Marden, has unveiled its apprenticeship scheme to bring young people into the specialist business on a structured training programme backed by government funding.

The ambitious firm is planning to relocate to the proposed Waterside Park development near junction 8 of the M20. If this goes ahead - it is subject to planning permission by Maidstone council - more staff are likely to be taken on.

ADL is offering a 12-month opportunity for its new apprentices to obtain NVQ qualifications and to develop their skills as part of its Investors in People strategy.

After completing the apprenticeship, the young people will be offered an opportunity to take up trainee or junior roles and join the company’s existing 236 strong workforce.

Apprentice Chloe Fotheringham, 22, said: “I chose to do an apprenticeship because I felt it would be a good way to gain real life experience. I have a keen interest in administration and felt this would be a good opportunity to get my foot in the door and start my career.”
Aimee Dougan, 23, added: “I wanted to work at ADL because of its reputation for training and development and I thought the company would offer me the opportunity to grow and develop.”

The apprentices were appointed following a recruitment event organised by ADL earlier this year that attracted more than 100 hopefuls.

Mark Northeast, ADL’s managing director, said: “The apprenticeship scheme is part of our wider plan to recruit 50 new people this year and an additional 100 over the next three years. Over the last 18 months we’ve seen tremendous growth and recognise that to continue our success and enter new international markets, we will need to add to our already highly talented staff.

“The scheme is a win-win for the apprentices and the business as existing staff mentor the apprentices which enables them to develop their skills and learn from the new perspective apprentices bring.”