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UK Building Firms Face Worst Recruitment Problems, Survey Shows

Blog Post Tempate

​Construction and engineering firms are bearing the brunt of Britain's shortage of workers, according to a survey that underscores the challenge for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to meet his plans to boost home-building and infrastructure.

The British Chambers of Commerce's (BCC) quarterly recruitment survey showed 82% of construction and engineering businesses reported recruitment difficulties, up from 69% in the first three months of this year.

The problem, which is not unique to Britain, was almost as severe in other sectors with nearly 80% of transport and logistics firms and production and manufacturing companies facing similar problems, all up from early 2024.

"It's alarming that recruitment difficulties have increased in recent months across all sectors," said Jane Gratton, the BCC's public policy director. "The very sharp rise in the construction industry is particularly worrying."

Starmer has promised to increase house building and infrastructure investment by clearing away obstacles in Britain's planning system. However, he has also promised to bring down net migration despite warnings from some business leaders that such a move will compound hiring problems.

The BCC survey was based on responses from 4,761 firms—91% of them small and medium-sized businesses—received between May 13 and June 10.

How Employment Solutions Can Assist

As the construction and engineering sectors grapple with severe recruitment challenges, our team at Employment Solutions is here to help. We specialise in bridging the gap between top-tier talent and leading firms, ensuring businesses find the skilled workers they need to succeed.

Tailored Recruitment Strategies

We understand that every company has unique needs. That’s why we offer tailored recruitment strategies to meet the specific demands of construction and engineering firms. Our extensive database of qualified candidates allows us to swiftly match the right professionals with the right opportunities, minimising downtime and boosting productivity.

Industry Expertise

With over twenty years of experience in the engineering and manufacturing sectors, our team brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. We know the challenges and requirements of these industries inside and out. This expertise means we can offer valuable guidance and support throughout the recruitment process, ensuring both employers and candidates achieve their goals.

Comprehensive Support

From the initial consultation to the final placement, we provide comprehensive support for both clients and candidates. Our services include talent sourcing, candidate screening, interview coordination, and ongoing follow-up to ensure successful integrations and long-term satisfaction. We're with you every step of the way.

Commitment to Excellence

At Employment Solutions, we’re committed to excellence. We stay ahead of industry trends and continuously improve our services to better meet the needs of our clients. By partnering with us, construction and engineering firms can overcome their recruitment challenges and build a strong, skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the future.

Ready to Assist

Navigating the complex recruitment landscape can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Employment Solutions is here to help UK building firms tackle these challenges head-on, securing the talent needed to drive success and growth. Let us help you build the future.