This pledge comes after last year’s announcement of creating a total of 5,000 apprenticeships for young people that are interested in working in the industry between now and 2025.
According to a report, BGC members support 119,000 jobs (61,000 direct employees and a further 58,000 in the supply chain), with over half of those jobs based outside of London. The majority of the jobs are in the high-tech sector.
BGC member Sky Bet has opened a £15m technology and innovation hub in Leeds which created 1,700 jobs. Meanwhile, bet365’s staff in Stoke consists of over 4,500 people.
The above-mentioned report also showed that BGC members contributed £7.7bn in gross value added to the UK economy in 2019.
Lord Walney, Engagement Director for the Levelling Up Goals at The Purpose Coalition, said: “Apprenticeships will play a huge part in the levelling up process, allowing companies to provide high-quality training for thousands of young people”.
Michael Dugher, CEO of the BGC, added: “The Government’s levelling up agenda is a fantastic opportunity to create more apprenticeships and tackle unemployment across the UK.
“Across the UK, from Stoke to Leeds, BGC members are investing in high tech jobs within their companies more than ever before. They stand ready to support the economic recovery after covid and provide the skills and opportunities that’s towns and cities need to thrive."
