Permanent placements increased by 11% in Q1 2025

FT Recruitment has reported a significant increase in demand for permanent recruitment services over the past six months, as UK businesses shift focus from short-term staffing to long-term talent acquisition strategies. This trend signals a renewed confidence in business stability and growth across multiple sectors.

According to the latest data from the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC), permanent placements increased by 11% in Q1 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with industries such as professional services, IT, engineering, and healthcare leading the way. Employers are recognising the strategic value of building stable, committed teams in an increasingly competitive labour market.

Miah Hamilton, Associate Director at FT Recruitment, commented: “We’ve seen a notable change in mindset among many of our clients. Businesses are looking beyond short-term fixes and are now investing in high-quality, long-term hires who can grow with the company. Using a recruitment agency like FT gives them access to a wider, pre-vetted talent pool, reduces time-to-hire, and ensures better cultural alignment – all of which are crucial in today’s candidate-driven market.”

The shift toward permanent recruitment is also being driven by candidate behaviour. In a recent FT Recruitment client survey, 68% of candidates expressed a clear preference for permanent roles over temporary or contract positions, citing job security, benefits, and career progression as key motivators.

Why Use an Agency for Permanent Hiring?

Recruitment agencies offer several advantages for employers seeking permanent staff:

• Access to Passive Talent – FT Recruitment connects employers with both active job seekers and high-calibre professionals who aren’t actively looking but are open to the right opportunity.
• Faster Hiring Times – With pre-screened candidates and efficient vetting processes, agencies can significantly reduce the time it takes to make a successful hire.
• Expert Market Insight – Agencies bring deep understanding of industry trends, salary benchmarks, and candidate expectations.
• Reduced Risk – Quality recruitment partners often provide guarantees on placements, helping minimise the cost of a bad hire.

As workforce demands continue to evolve, FT Recruitment remains committed to partnering with businesses to deliver talent solutions that support long-term success.

Contact us today to learn how we can help strengthen your team with the right permanent hires.

📞 Contact our specialist Permanent Division today on 01530 444 840 — we’re here to help you take the next step!