The company undertook a major overhaul of its established apprenticeship programme three years ago, introducing a series of innovations to support the block release training delivered at the Mercedes-Benz dedicated Training Academy in Milton Keynes.
These include a four-day induction for new joiners which involves meeting the management team and spending time in all departments; the provision of mentors; cross-discipline training to promote team working and integration; and the development of specialist modules such as fabrication, welding and hand fitting, which are delivered at the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre.
The Dealer has also introduced a fourth-year improver course covering HGV training, legislation, product courses and time spent with customers, to maximise career opportunities.
Following a successful trial period apprentice technicians now receive a Boxo Tool Kit worth more than £3,000, and the company also provides financial incentives by paying wages at 30% above the industry standard and contributing to a 10-year or 15-year monthly savings pot, allowing apprentices to earn a bonus of up to £21,600.
Northside reported pass rates of 100% and retention rates of 98% for all apprentices, results heralded by the MT Awards judges as “outstanding”. There had been 256 applications for 2014’s intake of 13 apprenticeships, while three of the six finalists in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Apprentice of the Year competition were from Northside – including Technical Apprentice of the Year winner Harry Atkinson.
Northside Truck & Van is responsible for sales and after sales support of the award-winning Mercedes-Benz Truck and Van ranges, as well as FUSO Canter light trucks. It is also the reigning Mercedes-Benz Truck Dealer of the Year, while directors Ben Sowersby and Leigh Margel hold the titles, respectively, of Truck Sales Manager and Van Sales Leader of the Year.