A UK ingredients manufacturer is aiming to shape the future of the sector through its apprenticeship programme, offering young talents a pathway into the world of food and technology.
Macphie is bridging the gap between education and industry through its comprehensive apprenticeship program which sees the organisation provide hands-on experience across multiple departments.
Lily-Anna Barclay, an 18-year-old success story of the programme, has transitioned from foundation apprentice to full-time employee, embodying the company’s commitment to nurturing home-grown talent.
Lily-Anna said: “I always knew I wanted to work in the food industry because home economics was always my favourite subject at school and it was an industry that always interested me. I just didn’t know which part.”
“I chose the food and drink technology course because it was more about food manufacturing and how food businesses operate and I was quickly exposed to the variety of career options on offer in the food industry.”
The Newtonhill native initially joined Macphie’s Foundation Apprenticeship in her fifth year of school, spending half a day each week at the company.
Her journey from Portlethen Academy student to full-time commercial apprentice at Macphie showcases the programme’s success in bridging education and industry.
“During my foundation apprenticeship, we rotated through various departments,” Lily-Anna explained.
“We were very lucky because they were launching a few new products at the time so we got to be part of the full development process.
“We even got to create our own dessert sauce with the product development team.
“We made sample bottles and presented our idea to the senior team. It made the experience feel very real.”
Now working full-time at Macphie, Lily-Anna is embarking on a modern apprenticeship in Digital Marketing with Dundee and Angus College.
This 12-18 month programme will see her attending college every second Friday while continuing her full-time role at Macphie.
“I’ve been doing a lot of website work, designing banners, and other tasks to support overall marketing campaigns,” Lily-Anna shared.
“It’s great because I also have an understanding of what goes on in other departments, which I see as a major strength.”
Reflecting on her experience, Lily-Anna encourages others to approach opportunities with an open mind.
“Don’t have any expectations—just go into it willing to learn. I had no idea what it would be like to work in a food factory, but I’ve had the best time, and now I’m so glad I work here.”
Andy Stapley, CEO of Macphie, said: “Our apprenticeship programme is a testament to Macphie’s commitment to innovation, not just in our products, but in how we develop talent.
“Lily-Anna’s journey demonstrates the programme’s success in identifying and nurturing the skills our industry needs for the future.”
“By investing in young talent like Lily-Anna, we’re not just securing our own future workforce, but contributing to the growth and innovation of the entire food sector.”
Macphie has grown from its roots as a Glasgow-based bakery wholesaler into a global ingredients manufacturer, supplying food brands, household name businesses and the wholesale sector.
The Aberdeenshire firm, established in 1928, now employs more than 250 people across its three sites and manufactures a wide range of products including cake mixes, savoury sauces, and plant-based and gluten-free options.
