Business minister Pat McFadden (pictured) said: "For so many businesses to be planning to recruit in 2010 is good news for the whole economy. It shows employers increasingly recognise the benefits they get from hiring apprentices. Undertaking an apprenticeship is a great way of learning a trade and gaining vocational experience.
"In 1997 apprenticeships had dwindled as a route for people to gain new skills; today we have 239,900 starting apprenticeships and businesses of all sizes are reaping the rewards of having a highly skilled workforce.
"Skills will be crucial to a strong economic recovery and I urge employers across the country to take the chance apprentices give them to boost their competitiveness, innovation and growth this year."
Apprenticeships minister Kevin Brennan added: "In the past year we have seen a record increase in the number of people starting an apprenticeship. The benefits are clear and this week I am urging businesses and young people alike to take a close look at what they can gain from them.
"Skills will be key to the recovery of the UK economy and apprentices can be vital to businesses looking to innovate and grow.
"I am proud so many businesses are hiring apprentices already. Last year 143,000 people completed an apprenticeship, helping to give them the skills and experience they need to get on at work."
New research commissioned through the National Apprenticeships Service and the British Chambers of Commerce shows more than three in five UK companies plan to recruit this year, while 72% of businesses that currently employ apprentices said they made a positive contribution during the recession.
Drive and enthusiasm is the trait most prized by employers (83%) while having skills that the business will need in the future is also sought after (71%).
Simon Waugh, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: "The time is absolutely right for businesses of all sizes to take on apprentices. Our research shows that firms that take on apprentices have been in great shape to face the downturn. Last year saw a 7% increase in apprentices; that's 240,000 people starting their careers with the best possible training and the determination to succeed.
"What continues to surprise me is the number of companies that still haven't switched on to apprentices and the value they bring to businesses."
National Apprenticeship Week: Both business and young people gain from apprenticeships, says Government
The Government has celebrated the commitment of employers to recruit apprentices.
