The employment in the UK's aquaculture sector has shown modest and fluctuating growth over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the number of people employed in aquaculture increased from 3.11 to 3.35 thousand units, indicating a generally positive trend despite some year-on-year variations. Specifically, there were noteworthy increases in certain years, such as a significant 7.07% rise in 2014, while other years, like 2015, saw declines. Over the last five years leading up to 2023, the employment figures have stabilized, with no change recorded year-on-year from 2020 onwards. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2018 to 2023 is approximately 0.3%, reflecting overall stability.
Looking ahead to the forecast data for 2024-2028, employment levels are expected to remain constant at 3.35 thousand units, indicating no anticipated growth or decline. This stability might be attributed to sector maturity, regulatory environments, or market saturation. Key trends to watch include the impact of technological advancements, such as automation, on employment levels, and shifts in market demand driven by sustainability concerns and shifts in consumer preferences.
