Story perspectives

UK Firms Cut Graduate Hiring Amid Economic and AI Shift

9/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

PwC UK reduced its graduate recruitment from 1,500 to 1,300 due to economic slowdown and AI's influence.
Deloitte UK cut its graduate intake by 300, now accepting 1,400 entrants.
Barclays research indicates 89% of businesses plan to invest in AI for problem-solving and skills training.
The UK job market faces pressure, with a five-month decline in permanent appointments, though the decline is easing.
Wage growth has slowed to its lowest in over four years, raising concerns about living standards.

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Story summary

PwC UK reduced its graduate recruitment from 1,500 to 1,300 due to economic slowdown and AI's influence.
Deloitte UK cut its graduate intake by 300, now accepting 1,400 entrants.
Barclays research indicates 89% of businesses plan to invest in AI for problem-solving and skills training.
The UK job market faces pressure, with a five-month decline in permanent appointments, though the decline is easing.
Wage growth has slowed to its lowest in over four years, raising concerns about living standards.