The news comes as the Telford-based firm has recently seen two of its workers complete work-based apprentice training schemes.
The newly qualified apprentices work in conversion, pre-press and print support, taking the total to seven completed, or going through the scheme at TCL.? This represents almost 15% of the workforce.
Speaking to Packaging News, TCL Packaging managing director Mike Golding said: "If you want a long-term business with human resources to grow you must put young people in at the bottom and use the apprenticeship scheme. That is the best way of doing it.
"If the whole of the packaging industry committed to employing 15% apprentices, what a difference it would make to youth unemployment statistics. There are some remarkable young people out there who just need a chance to prove themselves.
"With the right training and support, we find apprentices quickly develop skills and deliver a measureable contribution."
'Inexpensive'
Golding said that TCL had already spent a bit of time working with the government on apprenticeships. ?He explained: "By taking on young people it actually delivers value to a business and it is relatively inexpensive thing to do."
He said with the government increasing tuition fees a larger proportion of young people will want to do apprenticeships.
TCL said the scheme has both social and commercial benefits. Golding said he believes there are advantages for everyone if handled in the right way. Golding added: ?"We take our time, with the help of a good local training provider to identify young people with good potential.? The government funds the training element and we find competency and performance levels after just one year are amazing. This leads to on-going employment opportunities at the full market rate with TCL and makes it a win for all involved."
