Pilgrim’s Europe has launched its Butchery Academy to bring fresh talent into the UK meat industry – with the first cohort of trainees at its Westerleigh site.

The academy offers paid training, recognised qualifications and long-term career opportunities for anyone looking to develop specialist craft butchery skills.

It comes at a critical time for the sector, which is facing a skilled butcher shortage and a significant decline in the number of abattoirs serving local farmers.

Aspiring butchers are trained to a high standard through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience with experienced on-site teams. The programme builds core technical skills alongside essential health, safety and food hygiene knowledge, preparing trainees for progression onto production lines and future specialist roles.

Successful trainees will become a Grade 2 Butcher within 12 weeks, earning a competitive wage whilst training. The business is also offering ongoing development opportunities for those individuals who are keen to progress in their careers to Grade 1.

Ed Hillier, Site Director – Westerleigh at Pilgrim’s Europe, and lead sponsor of the Butchery Academy, said: “Just as access to a local abattoir is a major priority for farmers, investment in our people and butchery skills is critical to the continued viability of both our Westerleigh site and Pilgrim’s farm-to-fork quality British pork model.. The Butchery Academy at Westerleigh reflects our focus on developing local talent, supporting our workforce and strengthening the resilience of the UK food supply chain and the communities that depend on it.”

Kirsty Wilkins, Chief People Officer at Pilgrim’s Europe, added: “Building a skilled and sustainable workforce means creating clear entry routes, strong development pathways and long-term career opportunities. The Butchery Academy plays an important role in attracting new talent into the business, supporting progression and ensuring we continue to invest in the skills our people need to grow and succeed.”