Vacancy Tracker - July 2025

Each month, we analyse UK job vacancy data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) to understand workforce challenges in the Motor Trades sector.

The June figures highlight a continuing slowdown in job openings, reinforcing concerns about long-term skills supply and labour market resilience in the sector. However, signs of stabilisation in Motor Trades suggest a possible turning point.

Automotive Vacancies: June 2025 at a glance

• Vacancy rate: 2.3%
• UK industry rank: 11th out of 21
• Approximate open positions: 14,000
• Year-on-year change: -30%
• Two-year change: -49%

June outlook

Vacancies across all UK sectors fell to 727,000 between April and June 2025, marking the 36th consecutive quarterly decline. With vacancy volumes now dipping below pre-pandemic levels, the data signals a cautious hiring environment across most industries.

Since May, the Motor Trades sector has recorded a drop of 2,000 open positions, with the vacancy rate falling from 2.7% to 2.3%. This downward shift brings Motor Trades in line with the national average for the first time in two years, hinting at a stabilising yet subdued recruitment landscape.

Key takeaways

• Vacancy rate returns to national norm
  For the first time in two years, the Motor Trades vacancy rate matches the national average, indicating a possible shift towards greater market stability.
• Hiring downturn continues
  The UK labour market is in the midst of a sustained correction. Vacancy numbers are trailing pre-pandemic levels and show no signs of a quick rebound.
• Motor Trades stabilising after sharp corrections
  While the sector has experienced a steep fall over the past year, vacancy rates have levelled off in recent months. This may reflect renewed confidence or more targeted hiring plans.
• Still one of the tighter labour markets
  Motor Trades continues to rank in the top half of UK industries for vacancy pressure, ahead of sectors like education, retail and public administration. Despite fewer openings, demand for skilled labour remains relatively strong.
• Skills mismatch remains a concern
  Many employers still report difficulties filling technical roles. This highlights a structural gap between labour supply and industry needs, even with lower vacancy levels.