Sharp Interpack is proud to be associated with the University of Lincoln's National Centre for Food Manufacturing, their's is a worthy and ambitious platform - enhancing the performance of those already engaged in the Food Manufacturing Industry whilst inviting manufacturers like Sharpak to offer their products and services who in turn can optimise on the cutting edge facilities offered by the Centre.

The equipment that is provided through this 'partnership' scheme enhances the University's existing facilties to train, assist and advise food companies in the process of automating their factories

Sponsoring companies like Sharpak can take advantage of the state of the art packing line mirroring a working factory, showcasing our products on the packing line to new customers, product testing in their testing suite or benefiting from the facilities in a fully kitted out laboratory with the latest analytical, microbiological and processing facilities.

Our picture shows Sales Director, Bob Hayes being welcomed by the National Centre's Principal Lecturer Mike Dudbridge. The back wall displays the logos of some of the partnering companies.

 It's a win-win formula that's finding favour with sponsoring companies all over the UK. www.lincoln.ac.uk/holbeach

A University at the heart of Industry's needs

The food processing industry offers a career path that is unparalleled in its choice of roles, industries and products and all supported with the highest standards of training and personal accreditation. In this industry the returns that employees seek for commitment and hard work are all met by excellent opportunities and personal career development.

And with the Government limiting the number of places to Universities - apprenticeships and 'in job' training could become the norm' rather than the exception spearheading a revival  in the fortunes of British industry.

The Food Industry has never been recognised as glamorous and finds it hard to recruit the cream of talent on the factory floor and in management , yet the opportunities for those who wish to make their mark are all-encompassing  - the idea of 'growing your own graduates' has come of age as employers recognise talent and ambition and reward it with further education.

The Centre for Food Manufacturing allows those already active in the Industry, those that have distinguished themselves in their chosen roles to go that extra mile through practical modularised non-residential study programmes. These can be on site or through distance learning. A range of food based and management courses can be chosen , the University works closely with the Centre to determine the most appropriate course agreeing a date schedule that suits both company and student.

The National Centre for Food Manufacturing at Holbeach has a vision to be a leading education and training provider for the food manufacturing, processing, agriculture and land-based sectors - they are well on their way to realising that goal - putting businesses and their best investments in their hands.