Design recruitment rising

Confidence in the design and marketing sectors have improved, new research has shown.

The European Market Eye report from Aquent revealed that three in five businesses predict a rise in permanent staff this year and 32 per cent plan to increase salaries over the next six months.

This is compared with 16 per cent over the last six months, onrec.com reported.

Aquent's UK regional director Peter Geary told the news source: 'The UK marketing and design sector was hit hard by the global downturn and after 18 months of little hiring across the industry, we're certainly now seeing signs of recovery and the market hotting up.'

Those working in the digital sector are seeing the biggest improvement, with 45 per cent of agencies predicting a salary rise.

In addition, 60 per cent of businesses reported an increase in permanent staff and 80 per cent predict a further recruitment drive.

Mr Geary added: 'It is very reassuring to see these measurable signs of confidence returning and companies beginning to plan for the future again.'