The BCC reported that around 61% of businesses were looking for staff in the second quarter, similar to 60% in the first quarter. But 76% reported difficulties. Some 5,700 businesses were surveyed to find that the construction sector faces the biggest challenge, followed by manufacturing, manufacturing and hospitality. The BCC’s head of policy, Jane Gratton, said: “Businesses remain under huge pressure to fill jobs, but record levels of recruitment difficulty show no sign of improving. “Solutions are urgently needed so that businesses can keep their doors open during these difficult times. “We have written to the government outlining a three-point plan for how they can work with business to solve this problem. “Companies should be encouraged to find new ways to unlock talent pools – by investing more in training their workforce, adopting more flexible working practices and expanding the use of apprenticeships.” The survey found that less than one in three companies increased investment in the past three months. Read more: Business leaders ask Tory leaders to prioritize economic growth Tory beauty contest: Tax cut and spending promises from leadership hopefuls Bank of England governor still believes inflation will fall sharply the following year Ms Gratton said: “There are 1.3 million job vacancies in our economy and fewer people in the workforce now than before the pandemic. “This is holding back productivity and growth, and employers are at a loss. “It puts livelihoods at risk and hurts the economy. “Employers cannot wait for a new Prime Minister before this is sorted out. Shortages affect not only their ability to service their order books but also the morale and wellbeing of their people. “The economic challenge we face is huge and unless we start filling the hole caused by 1.3 million vacancies, we cannot get back to growth.” The news comes a day after Confederation of British Industry director general Tony Dunker wrote an open letter to Tory leadership candidates calling for economic growth to be prioritized.
