Recruitment Industry Status Report 2024/25
Recruitment industry status report
The recruitment industry contributed £40.6 billion to the UK economy in 2025, accounting for 1.6% of the UK's Gross Value Added.
Welcome to the REC’s Recruitment Industry Status Report (RISR) 2024–25.
Each year we survey REC members across the UK to provide the latest insight into the size and value of the staffing industry and the number of people we place into work.
This year has brought real volatility, from inflation and shifting labour demand to regulatory change. Yet recruiters continue to adapt, innovate and support clients and candidates through uncertainty.
The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities. Our industry has a crucial role in shaping a more dynamic, inclusive and forward-looking labour market. Government, business and job seekers need us more than ever.
This year’s RISR highlights that value and shares the data you need to understand today’s market and plan confidently for tomorrow.
Michelle Mellor Chair, REC Board.
Download the insight today.
PDFREC Members can log in now to access the report for FREE.
The report enables experts like you to drive your business growth through market intelligence and expertise, whilst equipping your recruiters with the insights they need to highlight the value they add to the recruitment process. This year’s report includes exclusive analysis on cashflow challenges from Bibby Financial Services. Economic modelling provided by Cebr.
Not a member?
RISR 2024–25 is now available for purchase by non-members.
Key findings
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Temporary and contract placements have continued to dominate our sector, accounting for 76.7% of GVA.
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Following a 5.3% decline in real GVA in 2025, recruitment activity is forecast to grow by 4.4% in 2026.
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According to REC member data, 35% of firms experienced bad debt in the past year – higher than the 29% reported across sectors in recent research from Bibby Financial Services.
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In 2024, around 872,000 temporary or contract workers were on assignment on any given day – still supporting essential roles across the UK. With growth expected to return in 2026, we anticipate this number rising again.
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Confidence to hire remains two percentage points higher than at the same time last year.
RISR 24/25 Toolkit
As an REC member, you can unlock our bespoke toolkit designed to help you use data and insights to highlight the true value of recruitment partnerships. This comprehensive toolkit will give you the suitable formats and charts you need to demonstrate to your clients the invaluable support you offer effectively.
RISR 24/25 Toolkit
DownloadRead last year's report
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