APSCo UK outlines strategic priorities to support members in 2026

APSCo UK has unveiled its strategic focus for 2026, designed to help members navigate a rapidly changing recruitment landscape shaped by economic uncertainty, regulatory shifts, and technological innovation.

Against this backdrop, recruitment businesses are expected to face continued pressure from skills shortages, rising compliance demands, and the acceleration of digital transformation. To continue to support its members, APSCo UK has realigned its services for 2026 and is launching new initiatives focused on supporting members’ transformation and diversification with practical, actionable guidance, alongside continuing to provide advice and guidance on international growth, and legal compliance, and working with Government to influence policy decisions.

Its focus for the new year includes:

• A new Business Transformation Zone: Building on APSCo’s global AI guidance, UK members will benefit from a suite of new services that will ensure members are equipped to harness the power of AI and automation.
• Business diversification forums: New quarterly forums will ensure members are in a prime position to diversify their offering for commercial success. From new supply models and skills-based hiring, to new markets, sectors and geographies, members will receive the tools and confidence they need to pivot confidently and profitably.
• Legal and compliance: Providing legal support to staffing companies and working with policymakers to ensure proportionate regulation that protects candidates without stifling innovation.
• Market intelligence and international growth: Providing timely insights on economic trends, sector performance, and legislative changes from across the globe to inform strategic decisions and aid global expansion for recruitment businesses.

The above will see APSCo UK deliver the biggest overhaul of its services in the last 25 years, reflecting the changing nature of professional recruitment and ensuring members have more support and opportunities in the year ahead.

Samantha Hurley, Managing Director of APSCo UK, commented:

“2026 will be a pivotal year for the professional recruitment sector. Firms are operating in an environment where trust, transparency, and adaptability are critical. Being agile and having the tools and understanding to manage the change through tech transformation while also recognising how the business and its end clients are also diversifying is going to be essential. Our role is to ensure members have the tools, knowledge, and representation they require to thrive. From providing the business support solutions needed to help members through a period of technological, behavioural and procedural change, to shaping policy, APSCo UK is committed to helping our community navigate complexity and seize new opportunities.

 

“The last year has certainly shown the resilience of the UK staffing sector, and we have supported our members throughout what has arguably been a year of flux. We are looking forward to doing the same next year, realigning our services to fit the new world of work and ensure our members have the support they need and can benefit from, no matter what happens in the economy. 

 

“APSCo UK remains the only trade association dedicated exclusively to the professional recruitment sector, offering a trusted voice and tailored support at a time when businesses need clarity and confidence. Our focus on legal and compliance support, business consultancy support, digital transformation, and diversification gives recruiters the support they require to run their business, ensuring members are not only prepared for change but also positioned to lead it.”

Find out more about APSCo UK 2026 Member Benefits here. 

Not an APSCo member yet? Find out how to join.