The challenge

Staffing firms are operating in a changing market. Economic pressure, evolving client demands, and ongoing talent shortages are reshaping how agencies plan, hire, and grow.

zvoove needed a clear view of how the industry is responding – where confidence sits, what’s driving change, and which challenges are having the biggest impact.

The approach

Arlington Research collaborated with zvoove and GVP to deliver the Industry Pulse 2026 study, focused on personnel service providers in Germany, bringing together the perspectives of company representatives and staff.

The research captured sentiment, priorities, and pressures across the sector – covering business outlook, recruitment challenges, digitalisation, and operational efficiency.

The result is a snapshot of an industry balancing short-term pressure with longer-term transformation.

The insight

Pressure is consistent, but responses vary.

Talent shortages remain an issue, alongside increasing expectations from both clients and candidates. At the same time, firms are investing in digital tools to improve efficiency and competitiveness. Adoption is growing, but maturity levels differ.

The research also highlights a focus on stability – maintaining performance in uncertain conditions while preparing for future growth.

The impact

The report gives staffing firms a clear benchmark for where the market stands.

It highlights shared challenges and emerging priorities, helping organisations assess their own position and identify areas for improvement.

For zvoove, it strengthens its role as a partner to the staffing industry, combining technology expertise with real-world insight into market dynamics.

Download the report
Report published in German