They’re hired!

individuals who want to get stuck into work.

“Apprentices don’t replace our need for more senior staff, though, and we’re still looking for big hires like a brand manager, IT developers and recruits for our digital marketing team.

“It’s just a shame that a lot of IT and digital talent seems to want to go to Manchester and Leeds when there’s a huge company on their doorstep offering them a decent wage and huge potential to build a career and make a difference in a fast growing business.”

Rachel said apprentices brought new energy to the business and added: “Young talent brings creative, new ideas to the business and as a dynamic, progressive business we are always changing to adapt to our customers and what they want.

“A lot of these apprentices bring a passion for the online world and technology and that is what our business is about. Together with the wealth of experience within the business and our new hungry apprentices, the sky is the limit!”

Apprentice Ethan, who has just joined the buying team, said: “I was a bit nervous at first and excited to meet new people.

“I didn’t have a real idea of what I wanted to do so I applied for an apprenticeship to gain experience in the business environment whilst earning money.

“I knew that apprentices are well looked after here and given lots of opportunities to grow. I hope to get through the apprenticeship showing that I’m worthy of a job afterwards.”

Shannon, who joined the logistics team, was also excited to work for Buy It Direct and said: “I liked the idea of learning whilst working and I’ve always wanted to work in a successful company.

“Although I’ve only been here for a few days, everyone in the office has been very friendly and welcoming and I hope that I can continue to develop a long, successful career here.”

Buy it Direct is the UK’s largest independent electrical and furniture retailer turning over £200m last year. The firm is more commonly known by their retail brands – AppliancesDirect.co.uk, LaptopsDirect.co.uk and Furniture123.co.uk.

It was set up by enterpreneur Nick Glynne who bought a tiny IT shop ‘on a whim’ for £3,000 in 2000 and turned it into a multi-million pound company.

Mr Glynne was named Chadwick Lawrence Business Person of the Year in the Examiner Business Awards 2016.