GROCER
Asda launches Roots apprenticeships with permanent jobs for young people
21 October, 2026 | by
Angela BeeversAsda has launched a new apprenticeship programme for young people who are not currently in work or education.
Through the Asda Roots programme, participants will be offered a permanent job combined with training and a recognised qualification.
Subscribe to TRBThe supermarket will initially take on 16 young people in roles across eight stores, with plans to recruit 250 more in 2027.
The programme offers paid employment with structured on-the-job learning, enabling participants to earn while they work towards a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification, equivalent to five GCSEs.
Aimed at 18 to 21-year-olds who are not in employment, education or training (NEET), Asda Roots will be delivered through the government’s Foundation Apprenticeship programme. It has been developed in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions and Inspiro Learning.
James Goodman, chief people officer at
Asda, said: ” Too many young people are held back because they haven’t had the opportunity to gain the skills and experience employers look for. Asda Roots aims to break that cycle by combining a permanent job with training, mentoring and a recognised qualification.
“We want to give young people the opportunity to earn, learn and develop the skills they need to succeed. Many retail leaders started their careers on the shop floor, and we’re excited to help the next generation take their first step with Asda.”
Angela Beevers is Director of Content & Events Strategy at The Retail Bulletin, where she has worked since 2011. She leads the publication's news team and oversees its daily coverage of the UK retail sector, from breaking developments to the early-morning release of retailers' trading updates and financial results.
Over more than 15 years at The Retail Bulletin, she has interviewed many of the industry's most innovative founders and leaders. She also shapes content for The Retail Bulletin's events and leads delegate engagement for its most high-profile events.
Her areas of focus include: Retail news · Trading updates and financial results · Retail leadership · Industry events
