The freelance market in the UK remains large, with around 4 million independent professionals now working across all sectors (consultancy.uk). In 2023 alone, over one million people launched solo businesses, and a net gain of 106,000 new self-employed professionals last year ipse.co.uk. In other words, there is no shortage of people eager to work as contractors – but demand for certain specialist skills far outstrips supply.
In events specifically, many sectors are hiring again. Live Recruitment’s team has seen a surge in briefs for digital, technical, and creative roles. The longstanding shortage of AV and technical crews continues with many changing industries following the pandemic with only a small proportion returning. By contrast, hybrid and virtual events have created demand for other specialists in events; videographers, digital technicians and marketers.
Technology skills such as AI, data and cyber-security have been cited as the hardest to fill (hudsonrpo.com), these are also skills that are increasingly relevant to modern events. Creative and experiential expertise is also at a premium, Laura Kelly, Manging Director of Live Recruitment highlights, “agencies are now bringing creative roles in-house to deliver more immersive experiences, which means companies are casting a wider net for freelancers who can bridge logistics and storytelling.”
In short, the pool of freelancers is big, but the specific skills needed for events such as specialist AV, digital production, experiential design, etc. are in hot demand. Savvy clients should engage specialists like Live Recruitment early, as these experts often have their pick of projects.