Skills remain a key priority for manufacturers, with a new report revealing that training budgets have not been hit by rising inflation. Some 86% of firms questioned in the annual In-Comm Training Barometer said that their spending intentions have remained unchanged, with more than 75% investing in modern technology to boost productivity – an 8% rise on last year’s findings.

The survey, which features the views of 113 bosses, also reveals that 61% are planning to take on an apprentice over the next 12 months, with 84% taking the decision to develop future engineering skills. However, the vast majority (72%) believe that there is not enough national government support for training, with 44% wanting better funding for apprenticeships and 39% to boost upskilling.

More information www.in-comm.co.uk