Despite the challenges, the report said employers who take a strategic approach to workforce planning will be best positioned in the year ahead. Two thirds of businesses found it difficult to source staff throughout this year, underlining ongoing shortages in sectors including hospitality, healthcare, retail, industrial and warehousing, a new report shows. Almost 70 per cent of employers are concerned about increasing employment costs, while 41 per cent report losing staff in the past six months. “For a portion of the workforce, hybrid work is no longer a ‘nice to have’,” said Mr Whelan. “Organisations that invest in workforce planning, flexible work models and clear career pathways will have a real advantage.

Source: The Irish Times December 23, 2025 15:02 UTC