Warburtons and Allied Bakeries MDs are among business bosses who have taken part in IGD’s charitable initiative Feeding Britain’s Future, which helps students explore their employment options.

Neil Campbell from Warburtons and Paul Kenward from Allied Bakeries supported the two main programmes: The Schools Programme and Skills for Work Month by talking to Year 9 and Year 12 students to help them prepare for the world of work.

The Schools Programme provides students with guidance on the skills needed in the workplace and insight into the variety of careers available in the food industry.

The Skills for Work Month helps unemployed people gain insight into the food and grocery industry and aims to provide practical skills to support job hunting. Workshops were run on topics such as tailored CV advice and tips on applying for jobs online.

Joanne Denney-Finch, IGD chief executive, said the initiative brings the industry together to inspire the next generation.

“We can’t do this alone; over 2,000 volunteers from nearly 300 companies have supported our two main programmes and we are making a real impact on thousands of young people who are considering their future, she said.

“All our volunteers can be immensely proud of our collective achievements and I thank everyone for their continued support.”

This month, IGD predicted the UK grocery market will grow by 1.2% over the festive period.