The self-employed workforce in the US wholesale sector (excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles) is projected to decrease steadily from 2024 to 2028, starting at 100,000 individuals in 2024 and declining to 83,000 by 2028. This represents an annual average decline of approximately 4.6% per year over this period. In 2023, the sector had actual data indicating higher numbers, marking the beginning of this downward trend.
The most immediate decline is seen from 2024 to 2025, with a 5% drop in self-employed individuals expected. Over the entire five-year span, the trend reveals consistent negative growth, signaling potential challenges for self-employed individuals in this industry.
Future Trends to Watch:
- Digitization and e-commerce are likely to further impact traditional wholesale methods, potentially reducing the need for self-employment in physical distribution.
- Economic shifts, such as inflation and supply chain disruptions, may influence the declining trend. Monitoring technological advancements and shifts in consumer behavior will be crucial.
