The Co-operative Group is to take on 800 apprentices this year – double the number it recruited in 2011.

They will be taken on through The Co-operative Apprenticeship Academy, set up last year to offer young people transferable skills, competitive salaries and qualifications.

The apprentices will work across the society’s businesses, spanning food, pharmacy, motors, legal, financial services and farming.

Chief executive Peter Marks said the The Co-op was on track to provide 2,000 apprenticeships for young people by 2014, meeting a target set last year.

“Youth unemployment is spiralling, with over a million 16 to 25-year-olds out of work,” he said.

“Coupled with the unpredictable economic future, it’s no surprise some young people feel unsupported and demotivated.

“We believe businesses have a real responsibility to open doors for young people by giving them opportunities to gain new skills, knowledge and experience, so that together we can build a strong and successful future for young people and our country.”