McCain Foods, the UK’s largest manufacturer of frozen potato products, has celebrated the graduation of 18 colleagues from its Manufacturing Academy. The ceremony was held at the company’s Scarborough headquarters and was attended by Alison Hume, MP for Scarborough and Whitby.
The milestone celebrates the achievements of colleagues who have completed nationally recognised qualifications (NVQs) and reflects McCain’s ongoing investment in strengthening skills across its UK manufacturing operations.
Launched in 2022, the Manufacturing Academy provides colleagues with the opportunity to complete NVQs from level 2 to level 5, combining structured, on-the-job learning with formal training. Delivered across McCain’s four UK sites – Scarborough, Whittlesey, Wombourne and Hull – the programme supports employees to build capabilities across logistics, food and drink production, business
Since its launch, 118 colleagues have enrolled in the Academy with new cohorts taken on every four months. The programme is helping empower employees and build critical skills across McCain’s operations, with more than 25% of participants progressing into new roles – supporting a growing pipeline of talent across the business.
The Academy plays an important role in developing the capabilities needed for the future of food manufacturing, while creating accessible pathways for colleagues at different stages of their careers.
Alison Hume, MP for Scarborough and Whitby, said: “Congratulations to this year’s Manufacturing Academy graduates. They should be incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved. I’m
McCain has been at the heart of our community for generations, and I want to thank them for continuing to invest in people of all ages here in Scarborough and across the UK. By championing lifelong learning and helping people develop new skills at every stage of their careers, they are creating opportunities that change lives.
The impact extends far beyond the factory gates. When local people can learn and build rewarding careers close to home, it strengthens families, supports local businesses and helps our whole community thrive. This is the kind of investment that creates a lasting legacy for Scarborough.”
Alison Rance, VP of manufacturing, McCain GB&I, said: “It is a real privilege to celebrate this year’s Manufacturing Academy graduates and the dedication they have shown to building their skills. It’s brilliant to see the ongoing impact the programme is having, supporting colleagues from all ages across the business to grow and progress in their careers. Moments like these highlight the role our people play in shaping the future of manufacturing at McCain.”
Paul Hilton, hygiene lead, McCain Hull, added: “Taking part in the Manufacturing Academy has been a real turning point for me. It’s given me the confidence and skills to step into a leadership role and take ownership of my development. It’s opened new opportunities and shown what’s possible with the right support, and I’d encourage others to give it a go and see where it can take them.”
The McCain Manufacturing Academy is open to all McCain employees who are invited to apply through a consultation with their line manager to ensure the programme aligns with their professional development plan. For more information about working at McCain, and career development opportunities, please visit www.careers.mccain.com.
