As we settle into 2025, it’s clear that the events industry is embracing a wave of optimism not seen in recent years. The past two years presented their share of challenges—economic caution, a focus on freelance contracts, and reduced budgets in certain sectors like pharmaceutical and automotive events. However, with the new year comes a renewed sense of stability and growth, and the team at Live Recruitment is thrilled to be part of this exciting journey.
A positive shift in events recruitment trends
“2025 is already shaping up to be a much better year compared to 2023 and 2024,” says Cassie Capener, Senior Account Manager at Live Recruitment. “Businesses are less cautious, event pipelines are looking healthier, and overall, the mood is more positive.”
This sentiment is echoed by Sabrina Pattison, Account Director at Live Recruitment; “The first few weeks of the year have been really encouraging. We’re working closely with both new and long-standing clients, and the good news is that people are hiring again.”
While 2024 was marked by caution, particularly with many companies relying heavily on freelancers to navigate uncertainty, 2025 so far has seen a marked shift. Permanent roles are now back on the agenda for many businesses, signalling renewed confidence in long-term growth.
Learning from the past - building for the Future
Last year was a mixed bag for the events industry. High-profile mergers, combined with businesses streamlining their operations and downturns in key sectors, such as automotive and pharmaceutical events, painted a challenging picture. For the pharmaceutical industry, reduced budgets were partially tied to larger financial issues, including a reported £4.7 billion in underpaid taxes in the 2020/2021 financial year. Such constraints inevitably trickled down to event budgets and recruitment plans.
However, the end of 2024 brought signs of a turnaround. “By the close of last year, we were seeing clients putting recruitment plans in place for 2025. That proactive approach has carried over into the new year, and it’s a promising sign for the industry’s recovery and growth.” shares Sabrina Pattison.
The start ups success story
An inspiring trend has been the smaller start-ups who branched out during the pandemic and recent turbulent years. These nimble, smaller businesses have found success by prioritising values like diversity, flexible working practices and sustainability – qualities that fresh, new and sought-after talent look for in a new role. Not only are they thriving, but many are now expanding their teams. “It’s fantastic to see these smaller businesses doing all the good stuff while achieving stability and security for growth,” Cassie Capener adds.
The role of acquisitions and the design-creative boom
Acquisitions were a defining feature of 2023 and 2024, with larger companies looking to diversify, solidify, and streamline operations. By bringing more roles in-house—particularly in design and creative functions—big players aimed to create more comprehensive offerings and foster client loyalty.
Looking ahead: stability and growth in 2025
After weathering the storm of the past two years, 2025 promises to be a year of levelling out. Businesses are not just surviving but thriving, setting the stage for sustained growth across the events industry.
At Live Recruitment, we’re proud to be working with an ever-expanding network of clients. Whether it’s supporting start-ups, partnering with long-time collaborators, or connecting businesses with exceptional talent, our focus remains on helping the events industry reach its full potential in this new chapter.
As we move forward, one thing is clear: the events industry is back—and it’s stronger, more innovative, and more exciting than ever. Here’s to a bright 2025!