Massive drop in job hunters

Companies have seen a “significant drop” in job hunters, a top recruitment firm has revealed.

James Hick, Manpower UK’S managing director, highlighted the hospitality industry – including hotels and restaurants – as an example. He said the number applying for each opening was down to “tens” from hundreds six months ago.

“There has been a very significant drop-off,” Hick said. Reasons include the very low jobless rates plus a fall in incoming EU workers since the Brexit vote. Manpower’s survey also showed a big drop in hirings by construction firms.

Hick said: “This chimes with recent data showing a slowdown in all activity, even housebuilding, which saw its worst performance since July 2016.”