In 2023, the total internal R&D personnel in the manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products in the UK stood at 415.76 full-time equivalents. The forecast from 2024 to 2028 shows a consistent year-on-year increase, with 2024's figure projected at 424.42 FTEs, showing a 2.08% rise over 2023. Subsequent years exhibit steady growth, with a 2.12% increase in 2025, 2.04% in 2026, 1.95% in 2027, and 1.88% in 2028. The five-year CAGR (compound annual growth rate) stands at approximately 2.01%.

Future trends to watch for include:

The impact of technological advancements and energy transition policies on R&D personnel demand.
Potential shifts in regulatory environments influencing research focus and personnel needs.
Emerging global market dynamics impacting the UK's refined petroleum sector.