Hays hit by UK slowdown

Recruitment consultant Hays today reported lower annual earnings for its UK & Ireland business after a 10% slide in second-half operating profits.

The Guildford-based firm said demand for permanent staff posts was falling in the region, while demand had also flattened out in the temporary jobs sector.

Full-year operating profits for the UK and Ireland fell 3% to £137.3m (€169m) in the 12 months to June 30, with figures hit largely by a slowdown in the construction and property and accountancy and finance sectors.