A Penrith businessman says the skills shortage affecting Cumbria’s hospitality industry is now being felt in the engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Joe Butler, creative director of woodworking firm Croglin Ltd, said local businesses were now in danger of having their growth stifled.
He said: “Croglin has a great order book and clients who are household names but despite a two-month search for skilled woodworkers and CNC operators we simply can’t get the experienced staff we need to meet demand.”
Croglin was previously based in Lazonby but has moved to new premises on the Gilwilly industrial estate.
Mr Butler added: “Following our move to new premises in Penrith and investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing technology, Croglin has been transformed from a traditional woodworking business in Lazonby to a, high-tech producer of luxury wooden packaging, but all our efforts to grow the business are in danger of coming to a halt by the shortage of available local skills.”
Darryl Appleton recently joined the business as a project manager.
He said: “It’s clear that we need to be more creative in what we can offer so were now looking at both part time and full-time positions.
“We’re also reaching out to recent retirees who might have moved to the Eden Valley for a life style change but have a desire to be using their skills
again.”
The firm is also working with a college to offer apprenticeships, but the company says that is looking ahead to its long-term future.
Mr Butler added: “Unless we, and many other companies like us, can find the skilled staff we need now, the long term future growth of the local economy is being jeopardised. ”
