The historical data for employment in software publishing in the UK reveals a volatile trend with periods of both growth and decline. In 2023, the employment figure stood at 13.61 thousand persons. The year-on-year variation shows a minimal growth rate of 0.33% from 2022 to 2023. Over the last five years, the average annual growth rate (CAGR) is 0.59%, indicating a relatively stagnant labor market in this sector.
Notably, forecasts predict a continuation of this slow growth trend. From 2024 to 2028, the sector is expected to grow at an annual rate of 0.25%, reaching around 13.82 thousand persons by 2028. This forecasted period suggests a subdued growth trajectory, with an overall forecasted 5-year growth rate of 1.24%.
Future trends to watch for include the adoption of AI and automation, which could both create new job opportunities and displace existing roles. Additionally, shifts towards cloud computing and cybersecurity could drive demand for specialized skills, potentially altering employment numbers and skill requirements in the sector.