Workforce skills development will be a major factor in driving profitability, according to the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association.
Its executive director Michael Bell was speaking at a recent conference to promote the benefits of skills in the food and drink industry, organised by Improve, the Sector Skills Council for food and drink.
The conference is one initiative arising from the Future Skills Action Plan for food and drink manufacturing and processing, developed by representatives from the industry, education providers and government setting out the actions needed to address the skills challenges facing the sector.
“This conference is a clear demonstration of the food and drink industry’s determination to reach its target to increase output by 40% to £5.4 billion by 2020,” said Mr Bell.
“It is imperative that there is joined up thinking in the supply chain and we continue to focus on developing skills, innovation and sharing best practise.
“This event highlights the importance of workforce skills development as a major factor in driving profitability and we welcome the Government’s recognition and support for the sector.”
Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry echoed the sentiments and said that skills helped individuals and businesses fulfil their potential and have a vital role to play in growing the Northern Ireland economy.
“The food and drink manufacturing sector is an important one within our economy, and I welcome employers’ proactive involvement in addressing the skills needs of their industry,” he said.
“This conference has given employers in the industry the opportunity to discuss their skills needs and to find out about the wealth of training provision offered by government departments.”
“The need to invest in skills is the central message of my Department. Skills help individuals and businesses to fulfil their potential and they have a vital role to play in growing the Northern Ireland economy.
“My Department has a range of programmes available to help. I would encourage all employers to consider the benefits of investing in their workforce.
“The Skills Solution Service provides trained skills advisers to your business to talk through your specific skills needs and help you discover the assistance that we can offer to your business. Other programmes available include ApprenticeshipsNI, Bridge to Employment and our newly announced package of free leadership and management programmes.”