Navigating the new normal: What 2025 demands from staffing agencies

The past few years have been some of the most dynamic yet for the staffing industry. While challenges remain, there’s a growing sense of optimism and signs that the second half of 2025 will be easier to navigate. Astute Payroll writes.

In conversations with clients at exhibitions and meetups this year, a clear shift has emerged: rather than taking a panicked, scattergun approach, agencies are increasingly focusing on the sectors and opportunities where they can offer unique value.

Despite the headlines about technology and AI transforming everything (and threatening our jobs), the reality on the ground is more nuanced. Challenges persist - especially when pivoting across more complex sectors like healthcare and construction.

That’s why the expertise of experienced consultants, supported by a well-configured and robust middle office system, remains essential.

We’re also seeing a trend where clients spend considerable time assessing the growing number of bolt-on solutions available. But often, the best return on investment comes from optimising the platforms you already have and keeping it simple where you can.

Prioritise system configuration and, critically, ensure your payroll team is well-trained and supported - they are the key to staying safe and compliant.

Astute has come a long way over the past 15+ years - from being one of just two primary “off-the-shelf” solutions to operating in a much more competitive and innovative market.

Since being acquired by Deel Inc. in 2022, we’ve become part of one of the fastest-growing tech company in history. Deel’s ongoing challenge and mantrak-eep things simple - is far from easy, especially in the complex world of global payroll.

The real question remains: how many different systems do you need to make a placement, track time, process payroll compliantly, invoice efficiently, and gain real-time insight into margins and costs?

And more importantly - how many systems do you actually want to be paying for?

The key challenge now for agencies is to invest time in the review stage: understand your business deeply - how it operates, where the real vs perceived limitations lie - and run a strong business analysis before engaging new providers.

Once you’re clear on your full list of requirements (even the small ones), you’ll be far better equipped to identify what really matters - and what doesn’t. In today’s purchasing decisions, nothing should be left to assumption.