The Banbury-based firm, which produces own-label bread and morning goods to the leading supermarkets, independent retailers, sandwich makers and caterers, is aiming to open the new bakery in October, and has been ramping up recruitment activities in recent weeks ahead of the launch.
Ultimately, the site could employ 250 people when it is operating at full capacity.
Under a scheme set up by NEM and Jobcentre Plus, local unemployed people will have the chance to complete free three-week training courses designed to provide them with the skills to work in the new bakery, NEM employment and training manager Mike Cunliffe told FoodManufacture.co.uk.
Those that complete the training, which will cover food hygiene, health and safety and haccp (hazard analysis critical control point), will be guaranteed an interview with Fine Lady Bakeries, said Cunliffe."It's effectively a three-week interview as the training will be conducted in close consultation with the senior production staff at the bakery and they will have a pretty good idea by then who is able to do the job."
All staff will work a 12-hour shift with four days on and four days off, then four nights on, followed by four nights off, enabling the bakery to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Targeted training
NEM chief executive Eddie Smith added: “We have developed an excellent partnership with the local Jobcentre Plus and other partners. Together we are committed to offering relevant training for those that are currently unemployed so they have the chance to get back on the career ladder.”
Jobcentre Plus account manager Hazel Holmes said: “We are working closely with Fine Lady Bakeries to help fill their vacancies; ensuring local people are given all the support they need to compete for the jobs on offer."
Fine Lady md Joe Street is keeping tight-lipped about the contents of the new bakery or where he sees the biggest growth opportunities for the business, telling FoodManufacture.co.uk: “We do not court publicity.”
The training courses will start in July.