As of 2023, the number of persons employed in the chemical, rubber, plastics, fuel products, and other non-metallic mineral products sectors in the UK was 397.45 thousand. From 2024, projections indicate a gradual decline in employment numbers over the subsequent years, reaching 378.53 thousand by 2028. This represents a year-on-year decrease with a CAGR of approximately -1.0% over the five-year forecast period, reflecting a modest contraction in the industry workforce.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Technological advances potentially reducing manual labor demand.
- Shifts towards sustainable practices impacting job roles.
- Economic climate changes influencing industrial investments.
- Policymaking and regulatory impacts on employment across these sectors.