One of the key indicators in times of economic uncertainty is the recruitment industry, and leading south-west agency Juice Recruitment is well placed to understand the short-term effects.
Following the weeks since the historic vote, Juice, which has offices throughout the region including Bath, Bristol and Cheltenham, has spoken to many employers across the South West who have said that they will not be freezing recruitment. This reflects the resilience of businesses throughout the country who seem determined to continue with ‘business as usual', according to Juice’s Managing Director Emma Summers.
“The team at Juice have not seen a decrease in demand but have noticed a significant increase in the number of temporary, contract and interim opportunities that have been registered.”
“Anecdotally, the decision makers in the businesses we work with are determined to look to the future albeit cautiously, bolstering their workforce with temporary staff where possible.”
“Whilst it is still very early to assess the impact on the vote to leave the EU, the need for uncertainty must be minimised so that the economy and labour market is not adversely affected.”
Since 23rd June, Juice has seen a 27% increase in demand for temporary placements.
Juice’s findings are supported by the REC/KPMG Jobs report which has seen slower growth in permanent candidates being placed the months of June and July 2016.
The REC Director of Policy, Tom Hadley said, “Uncertainty during the run up to the referendum saw many employers suspend permanent hiring and instead bring on temporary contractors or interim staff to hedge against potential changes to their growth prospects.”
“The best thing for businesses right now is clear and calm leadership and as much clarity as possible on what the post EU future will look like.”
Juice is proud to represent some of the strongest and most prolific brands in the South West and the effects of Brexit on their business will determine their recruitment requirements.
Emma Summers added, “For some organisations, Brexit has already seemed to have a positive effect with goods and assets becoming more affordable, whilst others have had to re-structure accordingly.
“The next six months will be vital. We’re likely to see an increase in demand for workers in the run up to Christmas, and by the end of the year we’re likely to know more about how and when article 50 will be triggered which will have an impact on the long term plans of many businesses.”