Picon is committing 1m over the next four years in a bid to encourage high-calibre graduates into the printing, papermaking, publishing and packaging industries.

From next year, Picons new Graduate Recruitment Incentive Plan (GRIP) will provide Picon members with a grant of 20,000 over four years toward the salary of candidates who meet selective criteria.

"Over the last couple of years we have been told by companies and members how difficult it is to attract the calibre of graduates into the industry, as opposed to them going into the media, finance or the City," said Picon chief executive John Brazier.

"Candidates have to be brought in to do a new job for companies who have a solid vision and plan for the future," he added. "Were not in the business of subsidising the status quo."

Brazier said the initial response from members had been "very enthusiastic".

The aim of the scheme is to provide companies with board-level directors with well-developed skills.

Brazier said the plan was to keep the criteria simple. He hoped Picon would be able to continue with GRIP after the initial four-year period.

He added that even if candidates decided to leave the industry, companies would not have to repay the grant monies, although funds would stop on applicants leaving.

"This is a substantial commitment from Picon, but it proves we are serious," Brazier said.

Funding could then be reinstated if the company were to recruit a suitably qualified replacement.

GRIP grants will be limited to one per member company, with plans submitted in support of their application and personal performance measures set for each successful candidate.

Story by Andy Scott