A workforce built, not bought
Fix Auto Dagenham has placed apprenticeships at the core of its staffing strategy for over 20 years, allowing them to build a thriving multi-site organisation upon homegrown talent. Their success story highlights how investment in apprenticeships drive growth and develops a resilient, sustainable business.
Through their apprenticeship programme Fix Auto Dagenham has expanded organically, opening two new sites without relying on external hires. Their commitment to nurturing talent from within has produced a skilled, loyal workforce trained in ways that align with business needs.
The company now recruits a minimum of four apprentices annually, reducing churn rate to single figures through a partnership with Apprenticeship Central.
Across three sites, the current 11 apprentices represent nearly 20% of the workforce.
40% of the entire team have come through or are part of the apprenticeship academy.
The company’s ethos is to nurture team members into leadership roles, creating a strong pipeline of skilled professionals who grow with the business. Many current leaders have risen through the apprenticeship programme:
Workshop Manager – A graduate of the first Multiskilled apprentices cohort.
Site Manager – Another member of the first Multiskilled apprentice group.
Accounts Manager – Began as an accounts apprentice nearly 20 years ago.
Through their continued dedication to apprenticeship programmes Fix Auto Dagenham are now seeing their apprentices deliver value quickly, typically covering their costs within 6 to 8 months. This results in lower labour expenses and reduced recruitment fees.
Fix Auto Dagenham’s experience proves that apprenticeships drive growth and build sustainable teams. Their success encourages other businesses to evaluate their apprenticeship programmes and invest in their future workforce.
Want to develop your own apprenticeship programme or have a story to share?