Shackerley welcomed Sir Lindsay Hoyle to Euxton headquarters

Shackerley Façade Systems welcomed the Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle to its Euxton base to talk about the need for more construction industry apprentice training funding.

The Chorley MP visited Shackerley at the invitation of Brian G Newell, founder and group chairman of Shackerley, who is also a founder member and director of The Tile Association (TTA), where he also chairs the technical committee.

Brian shared the frustration of other TTA directors about the lack of apprentice funding in the ceramics industry and the difficulty in gaining any parliamentary support to raise the issue with government or construction industry bodies.

Brian G Newell said: “As a former member of the Trade and Industry Committee, who ran his own textile business before he became an MP, Sir Lindsay is very familiar with the critical role of apprenticeships and training in any sector.

“Funding for apprenticeships is vital for attracting new talent into our sector and overcoming skills gaps that are limiting growth across the supply chain.

"I am hoping that the conversations we have had today will be a catalyst for further discussions with industry bodies that can unlock funding to help the ceramics industry train and develop the next generation.”

Sir Lindsay last visited Shackerley’s Euxton headquarters three years ago and was keen to find out more about the new products the company has added to its range.

Sir Lindsay said: “It was fantastic to return to a company within my constituency and see how much it has grown and invested over the past three years.

"This is an SME punching significantly above its weight, both in the UK and further afield, driving innovation in its sector while considering the wider skills needs for the ceramics industry.

“Training, apprenticeships and the long-term needs of key industries such as construction are huge priorities for the UK, and visits like this one really help to inform decision making.

"I am pleased I was able to spend time at Shackerley and catch up with Brian and the team.”