Dulux Academy extends reach with new professional training facility in Dulux Decorator Centre Scunthorpe

As part of Dulux Academy’s ongoing commitment to professionalising the industry, promoting the profession and making training more accessible across the UK, the business is continuing to expand its reach via Dulux Decorator Centres. The latest activity includes the launch of the new Dulux Decorator Centre and Dulux Academy in Scunthorpe, which opened its doors on 23rd February.

The relocated Dulux Decorator Centre store now includes a purpose-built Dulux Academy, allowing trade professionals to benefit from expert training delivered by experienced Dulux Academy Skills Development Consultants. The new facilities offer training in areas such as wallpapering, spraying and perfect preparation and will eventually grow to provide the full range of Dulux Academy courses.

In addition to providing fresh opportunities for painters and decorators to learn and develop new skills, the business includes a larger Dulux Decorator Centre store featuring an expanded and improved range of products designed to fit the needs of all trade professionals.

The launch follows on from the successful introduction of on-site Dulux Academy facilities at Dulux Decorator Centres in Norwich, Altrincham and West Thurrock in 2021. The new Scunthorpe business will be one of several new Dulux Decorator Centre and Dulux Academy sites opening at locations across the UK this year.

Dulux Academy has helped develop the skills, knowledge and confidence of more than 10,000 trade professionals since its launch in 2016. During the pandemic the training adapted, evolved and continued via Dulux Academy Live – a series of free interactive and engaging online workshops that are still available today for those keen for a ‘taster’ experience. In January this year, Dulux Academy launched its Apprentice Season Ticket, an initiative offering extra incentives and new learning solutions for apprentices including access to courses across the UK as well as online learning and more. The launch of the Apprentice Season Ticket forms part of a wider pledge by Dulux Academy to train a further 10,000 trade professionals over the next five years to address the labour skills gap and support the workforce of the future.

Vickie Mather, Dulux Academy Lead at AkzoNobel, said: “Since its conception, Dulux Academy has offered the chance for painters and decorators to explore, expand and learn new skills. We’re so proud of our partnership with Dulux Decorator Centre, which allows us to increase the level of training and support we can give to the trade and local businesses across the UK and, in turn, address the wider industry skills gap.

“Our new site in Scunthorpe will help more trade professionals upskill and hone their craft through our industry-leading courses and marks the latest step in our ambition of having a Dulux Academy within 100 miles of a decorator.”

Mark Rigby, Skills Development Consultant at Dulux Academy, said: “It’s great to see our latest Dulux Academy in Scunthorpe come to life and to start welcoming our first course delegates at the new training facility. Whether you’re just starting out in the industry or are looking to brush up on your skills or learn new ones, Dulux Academy has courses to suit all requirements and skill levels led by our team of highly-qualified expert trainers.”

Guy Butterworth, Managing Director at Dulux Decorator Centre, said: “We always endeavour to improve skills of our customers, opening this store will help us provide easy access support and advice for those in the trade.

“Partnering with the Dulux Academy means we can make it easier for customers to train in new techniques, ensuring they are equipped with all skills they need to succeed.”

For more information, visit: www.duluxacademy.co.uk.

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