Staffing Hours Rise 7% as Employers Target Revenue Growth Without Adding Headcount

NewsData.io · United States · Sep 19, 2026

US staffing hours climbed 7% year over year through early September, led by a 12% surge in industrial placements tied to manufacturing and data center construction. More than 60% of employers project revenue growth by 2027, but only half plan to add permanent headcount — a gap that positions contingent labor demand to expand. Three notable industry moves underscore consolidation: VeriWorks acquired skilled-trades platform LaborWorx, Harver absorbed Symphony Talent to form a 1,500-client assessment and recruitment marketing platform, and ALKU launched a dedicated AI and analytics division targeting enterprise deployments. ASA long-range projections through 2034 show engineering, IT, scientific, and healthcare staffing each growing 8.5%, while office/clerical is forecast to decline 3.9%.