Top Recruitment Trends in Logistics & Industrial Staffing for 2025

The logistics and industrial sectors continue to evolve rapidly, shaped by technology, shifting workforce expectations, and ongoing supply chain pressures. As we step into 2025, businesses face new challenges, and new opportunities, in attracting and retaining the talent they need.

At Class 1 Personnel, we work closely with employers and candidates across logistics, warehousing, industrial and hospitality environments, giving us insight into the trends that are already shaping the year ahead. Here are the top recruitment trends to watch in 2025.

Automation & AI Create the Need for Higher-Skilled Operatives

Automation is no longer an emerging concept, it is now deeply embedded in warehouse operations, transport management and supply chain planning.

In 2025, employers are increasingly looking for workers who can operate, maintain and troubleshoot automated systems.

Rather than reducing the workforce, automation is shifting demand toward:

• Multi-skilled warehouse operatives

• Machine operators

• Technicians with basic IT/robotics familiarity

• Staff confident using digital systems for stock or workflow management

  
  

Agencies that provide training or upskilling pathways will be better placed to fill these evolving roles.

Growing Demand for Flexible and Seasonal Staffing

Supply chain uncertainty, global events and fluctuating consumer demand have pushed companies to rely more heavily on flexible labour.

In 2025, we’re seeing heightened demand for:

• Temporary workers during peak seasons

• On-demand warehouse teams

• Short-term drivers and logistics staff

• Shift-based industrial support

  
  

Businesses want to scale their teams quickly without compromising compliance — which is why experienced staffing partners remain essential.

Candidates Prioritise Stability, Safety & Fair Treatment

Candidates in logistics and industrial environments have become more selective.

Competitive pay is still important, but in 2025 workers are equally focused on:

• Consistent hours

• Clear communication

• Health & safety standards

• Respectful workplace culture

• Opportunities for progression

  
  

Agencies with strong onboarding, transparent expectations and ongoing candidate support are attracting (and keeping) better talent.

Compliance & Right-to-Work Checks Under Increased Scrutiny

With tighter regulations and higher penalties, compliance has become a top priority for employers and agencies alike.

2025 brings continued focus on:

• Right-to-work verification

• Worker classification (temporary, PAYE, umbrella)

• Health & safety compliance

• GDPR and data protection

• Ethical recruitment practices

  
  

Businesses are seeking recruitment partners who can prove robust compliance systems — not just promise them.

ESG & Sustainability Influence Hiring Decisions

Sustainability now plays a role in workforce strategy. Logistics businesses are increasingly adopting greener practices, and this influences hiring too.

Examples include:

• Recruiting for electric vehicle (EV) drivers

• Hiring staff trained in energy-efficient warehouse practices

• Increasing demand for sustainability coordinators

  
  

Employees, particularly younger workers, value organisations committed to environmental responsibility.

Tech-Enabled Recruitment Speeds Up Hiring Processes

Recruitment technology is improving efficiency and reducing time-to-hire. In 2025, agencies are using:

• Mobile-first candidate applications

• Digital onboarding and e-documents

• Automated shift booking systems

• Data-driven matching tools

  
  

This helps employers secure talent faster while offering candidates a smoother experience from registration to placement.

Upskilling Becomes a Competitive Advantage

With skills shortages across logistics and industrial sectors, training is no longer optional — it’s a strategic investment.

Employers increasingly expect agencies to provide or facilitate:

• Manual handling training

• Health & safety certifications

• Basic digital literacy

• Industry-specific courses

  
  

Agencies that can upskill workers quickly and affordably gain access to a far more reliable talent pool.

Conclusion: 2025 Is a Year of Adaptability & Opportunity

From automation and compliance to worker expectations and sustainability, logistics and industrial staffing are undergoing meaningful change.

For employers, the key to thriving in 2025 will be flexibility, strong compliance and partnerships with staffing providers who understand the evolving landscape.

At Class 1 Personnel, we support clients with reliable staffing solutions, comprehensive compliance checks and a strong pool of trained candidates ready to hit the ground running.

If your business is preparing for the year ahead and needs support with recruitment or workforce planning, we’re here to help.