Dual-provider apprenticeship model launches in FM sector

Sodexo has launched a pioneering dual-provider apprenticeship scheme that trains candidates in both facilities management and hospitality skills simultaneously. The programme is designed to create a more flexible and resilient workforce, capable of moving between front-of-house, catering, cleaning, and technical FM roles depending on client and operational need, particularly in integrated service contracts.

For fleet and service businesses, workforce flexibility is just as important as vehicle flexibility. Driver shortages, seasonal demand peaks, and the increasing complexity of connected fleet systems mean that multi-skilled teams—able to handle logistics, compliance, customer service, and basic technical tasks—offer a significant competitive advantage and improved service continuity.

Businesses should consider how apprenticeships and cross-training can address skills gaps, improve retention, and future-proof operations as fleet technology evolves. With the shift to electric vehicles and telematics, technical knowledge is no longer confined to the workshop; drivers and schedulers also need to understand charging, route optimisation, and data interpretation.

Bluepoppy supports clients not only with vehicles and funding but also with guidance on driver training, EV familiarisation, and using connected fleet data to improve performance. If you're looking to upskill your team or make better use of the data your vehicles generate, our Fleet Cost Review is a practical starting point.

Bluepoppy view: Multi-skilled teams and smart fleet data go hand in hand—both make your operation more adaptable and efficient.

Source: FMJ — summarised and written from a Bluepoppy perspective. We don’t reproduce the original article.