Demand for apprentices surges in fresh produce sector

He said the new graduate was leading the integration of a new software system into the business which ultimately would improve the overall efficiency of the operations.

MDS said it had seen a sharp rise in applications from university graduates this summer.

Kirsty Barden, MDS business development manager, said: "The food and fresh produce industry has been in the spotlight since March, which has boosted its reputation as an aspirational career for ambitious graduates. We have attracted talent from a wider net of disciplines, which can be very attractive for employers. Bringing in engineering or marketing minds can support aspects of their business which need nurturing.

"It is also an opportunity for the industry to showcase the variety and rewards of a career in fresh produce to young people. It may have been a bigger job for us, having to select from so many applications, but the standard is higher than ever to the benefit of the industry.”