Salford-based brewer and pub retailer Hydes is stepping up its investment in apprenticeships across all areas of the business, encouraging employees of all ages and experience levels to take part in structured training designed to support long-term career growth.

From pub management and kitchen careers to specialist areas such as operations, technical brewing and health and safety, Hydes is creating new opportunities for employees to learn on the job while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.

The initiative reflects Hydes’ ongoing commitment to developing its people and supporting progression from within. Apprenticeships are open to both new recruits and existing employees who want to take their careers in a new direction.

Among those currently benefiting is 22-year-old health and safety apprentice, Abby Morgan, who joined the programme after working in hospitality for six years. Abby is completing a Level 3 Safety, Health and Environment Technician apprenticeship and says the opportunity has already had a major impact on her professional development.

Abby said: “I wanted to take on a new challenge and do something that would really push me. Health and safety is such a huge part of everyday life, and the apprenticeship route allows me to gain a qualification while getting real, hands-on experience.

“Hydes has been really supportive throughout the process and always makes sure I’ve got the guidance I need. The best part is learning new things every day and being able to apply my previous knowledge in a practical way. My goal is to become a qualified health and safety advisor, and this apprenticeship is helping me get there.”

Chris Riley, 45, a member of the six-strong brewing team, is currently working towards his Level 4 Brewing Apprenticeship qualification, having joined Hydes in March 2024.

Chris said: “I’ve worked in brewing for over eight years, but don’t have any formal, recognised qualifications. Joining Hydes has changed this. The apprenticeship is helping me understand the science behind the brewing process and why certain things happen the way they do. It’s given me a much deeper appreciation of the craft and made me more thorough in my approach.

“Hydes has a great track record of supporting apprentices and has been really proactive in offering this opportunity to me. It’s reassuring to know the company wants me to develop and stay for the long term. I chose this career because I enjoy it, and now I’m gaining the qualifications to match the experience I’ve built up. The course has given me confidence, responsibility and the chance to get involved in recipe design and creative input, which is incredibly rewarding.”

Adam Mayers, Managing Director of Hydes, said: “Apprenticeships are absolutely vital to the future of Hydes and the wider hospitality industry. They give people the chance to earn, learn and progress, no matter what stage they’re at in their careers. They are definitely not just for those starting out on their career journey.

“Investing in our people has always been at the heart of Hydes. Apprenticeships allow us to nurture talent, build confidence and ensure that our teams have the skills and knowledge needed to deliver the best possible experience for our customers. They also open the door for individuals like Abby and Chris to develop specialist careers in areas such as brewing, operations and health and safety, which are essential to our long-term success.”

With its brewery based at Media City and a pub estate of more than 40 sites across the North West and North Wales, Hydes continues to champion the value of apprenticeships as a key part of its growth strategy.

Hydes is actively recruiting new apprentices and encourages anyone interested in a career in hospitality, brewing or business management to find out more about the opportunities available.

For further information about Hydes’ apprenticeship programme, email: mail@hydesbrewery.com