In 2023, employment in the UK's spirits sector stood at 14.55 thousand full-time equivalents. Over the past two years, the sector experienced a growth of 2.18% in 2022 and 2.09% in 2023. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the last five years was 1.48%, indicating steady albeit moderate growth. From 2013 to 2023, the sector displayed volatile variations, with significant year-on-year changes such as a drastic decrease of 38.74% in 2016 and a sharp increase of 89.62% in 2017, showcasing the sector’s resilience and adaptability.
Future trends indicate a positive outlook. Forecasted data from 2024 to 2028 show a gradual increase in employment, reaching 16.1 thousand by 2028. The forecasted five-year CAGR stands at 1.6%, reflecting moderate growth with an overall forecasted five-year growth rate of 8.27%. This suggests a stable upward trajectory in employment within the sector.
Key future trends to watch for include:
- Technological advancements and automation impacting job roles and requirements.
- Regulatory changes and their effects on the sector.
- Shifts in consumer preferences, particularly towards premium and artisanal spirits.
- Impact of global trade dynamics and Brexit on import and export activities.
