Partnerships are the fabric of our business.
2025 has been a bit of a whirlwind, hasn’t it?
A year of change, resilience and plenty of lessons learned. Of course, there have been some tough times, but also some real wins; both for the industries we work in and for us here at Bowmay.
We’ve seen so much movement across textiles, manufacturing and engineering. Some companies have doubled down on investment and innovation, others have been rethinking how they attract and keep good people. And through it all, one thing’s stayed the same… people remain at the heart of every success story.
As of March 2025, the UK workforce stood at around 37.1 million jobs, showing that, even in uncertain times, employment remains robust.
In textiles alone, the industry supports about 43,500 people nationwide and sub-sectors like weaving and finishing currently employ over 15,000. Meanwhile manufacturing and engineering remain major pillars for British industry, with an estimated 2.6 million jobs across the country.
Together, these figures show there’s real, enduring demand for the kinds of senior-level textile, manufacturing and engineering talent we specialise in.
So what’s been happening in recruitment?
A more considered market
2025 has seen businesses take a more thoughtful approach to hiring, with clearer expectations and a sharper focus on long-term fit.
We’ve also noticed a shift in what people are looking for. Flexibility, career development and purpose are still top of the list, but they’re also craving stability and a real connection with the business they join.
Looking ahead, we think 2026 will bring a bit more confidence back into the market. Companies have adapted to change, and there’s a sense of optimism. Hiring will stay competitive; but the businesses that communicate well, move quickly and treat people right will stand out.
Textiles – Heritage, heart and a lot of innovation
It’s been brilliant to see UK textiles keep evolving this year. There’s still that deep pride in craftsmanship and heritage, but now it’s paired with innovation in digital print, sustainability and product development.
We’ve spoken to lots of businesses who are pushing for greener processes or bringing their manufacturing back to the UK. That shift has created new types of roles; ones that blend technical know-how with creativity and problem solving.
As we head into 2026, that trend’s only going to continue. Sustainability isn’t just nice-to-have anymore; it’s shaping entire business strategies. The most successful companies will be the ones that invest in people who can bridge tradition and innovation.
Manufacturing & Engineering – still strong, still adapting
If there’s one thing that’s stood out in 2025, it’s how adaptable manufacturing and engineering continue to be. Despite all the change, investment hasn’t stopped – it’s just become more focused.
Automation, AI and smarter processes have all played a role this year, but they’ve also created new challenges when it comes to skills. Companies need people with hands-on expertise and digital understanding. Those individuals are worth their weight in gold.
The good news is… there’s a renewed energy in these industries. We’re seeing businesses plan ahead, build training into roles and think more creatively about who they hire. That’s a really positive sign as we move into next year.
Bowmay – Where partnership meets performance
For us, 2025 has been a year of growth – not just in numbers, but in impact. We’ve supported business owners, senior leaders and directors across textiles, manufacturing and engineering to find the talent they needed to drive their business forward.
Behind every placement is collaboration, deep knowledge, and understanding what each business is building towards, what skills will move them forward, and what kind of person will fit their culture.
In a market like this, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞-𝐨𝐮𝐭!
Looking ahead
If we had to describe 2025, it’s been year of change, confidence and stronger partnerships.
The sectors we work in are evolving fast, but they’re filled with smart, passionate businesses that are ready for what’s next.
We’re proud to play our small part in that, helping brilliant companies and ambitious people connect, grow and keep British textiles, manufacturing and engineering thriving.
If you’re planning to hire in 2026, now’s the perfect time to connect! If you want to have a confidential chat, call us on 0161 883 2126, we’d love to talk to you.
Here’s to a strong start to 2026 and plenty more partnerships along the way ♥️
