As of 2023, the number of persons employed in the UK sawmilling and planing of wood industry stood at approximately 10,000 individuals. Forecasted employment figures for the coming years show a steady increase from 2024 through 2028, with employee numbers rising incrementally to 10.45 thousand by 2028. Year-on-year growth is consistent, reflecting a stable and modest upward trend, with the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) expected to mirror slight improvements in market conditions over the period.

Future trends to watch for include:

Technological advancements and automation impacting workforce needs.
Environmental regulations and sustainable practices influencing industry operations.
Potential shifts in demand tied to construction trends and material preferences.