1:58 pm, July 24, 2026
Vertu Motors has been recognised as the UK’s highest-ranked automotive retail group in the Government’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2026 list.
Compiled by the UK Government and HIGHERiN, the annual rankings recognise employers across England for their commitment to apprenticeships, measuring achievement rates, the range of opportunities offered and the quality of the apprentice experience.
Vertu currently employs 285 apprentices across the business, including 12 who are studying for degree-level apprenticeships. The dealer group works with 16 training providers to deliver 26 apprenticeship standards covering a wide range of roles.
Over the last financial year, 130 apprentices completed their programmes, while more than 50 new starters joined the business. Most of the group’s apprentices are aged under 25, reflecting its focus on attracting young people into the motor retail sector.
Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu, welcomed the recognition and said it reflected the company’s long-term commitment to developing talent.
He said: ‘This recognition highlights the work being done across the business to create meaningful career pathways for young people and older colleagues who are looking to expand their skills and grow within the company.
‘Apprenticeships play a vital role in shaping our future workforce, and it is encouraging to see those efforts acknowledged at a national level.
‘Our apprenticeship scheme is focused on giving people the opportunity to gain skills, qualifications and experience that puts them on the road to a rewarding career within the automotive sector.’
Forrester added that apprenticeships also provide opportunities for existing employees to progress their careers, with several colleagues who joined the company’s degree apprenticeship programme already moving into management positions.