News
Moto launches first
02 December 2005
The centre, at the Poplar 2000 truckstop just off the M6 at Lymm, Cheshire, is the result of an 18 month partnership between Moto Hospitality Ltd, who operate the site, the T&GWU and USDAW, the shop workers’ union. Its aim is to give trades union members, Moto staff and members of the public easy access to the numeracy, literacy and basic IT skills that the “Skills For Life” programme normally provides through colleges and further education establishments.
Moto’s managing director Brian Lotts said: “We are really excited about having the first skills training centre on the motorway network because it brings a vitally important educational initiative within the reach of a whole new group of people.
“Until now these courses have only been available through colleges but not everyone has the time available to enrol on a college course. This centre means people can sign up and take advantage of the facilities whenever they are in the area and because Poplar 2000 is the busiest truckstop in the country, we’re anticipating a huge demand.”
Moto has converted part of the restaurant at the service area into the training centre and funding to cover the costs of the “Skills For Life” courses has been obtained from the Union Learning Fund, which is administered by the trades unions. Training will be delivered through Learn Direct, the on-line learning provider, in conjunction with Knowsley Community College, which will also provide any additional tutor support that may be required.
If the centre proves to be successful, others could be opened around the Moto estate of 48 service areas.
Note to Editors
Moto Hospitality Ltd, part of Compass Group UK, is Britain’s biggest operator of motorway service areas, with 48 sites catering for the needs of over 120 million travellers every year.
Compass Group PLC is the world's largest foodservice organisation with annual revenues in excess of £11 billion and employing more than 375,000 people in over 98 countries. In the UK and Ireland, Compass Group has annual revenues in excess of £3 billion, employing over 110,000 people.
For further information contact: Suzanne Hollinshead on 01525 714467
