Published on: 06 March 2023
The survey shows the sector is still dominated by micro businesses but it is encouraging to see that over 80 percent have staff numbers at or above pre pandemic levels. However, over 80 percent believe there are skills shortages in the sector and the majority report difficulties when recruiting. And with almost 60 percent expecting staff to retire in the next five years and only 12 percent employing apprentices, the situation is worrying.
Simon Limb, British Marine Scotland joint chairman commented: “Like many sectors, the marine industries are finding difficulties recruiting new staff but we must do so in order to meet the needs of our customers moving forwards. Research like this is vital to ensure we are fully aware of issues within the sector and we thank everyone who took time to complete the survey. The responses will help focus our work and activity over coming years to address making the sector more attractive to new recruits and improving marine sector training.”
Read the infographic here.