The number of candidates, vacancies and placements all fell on a monthly and annual basis in May, the first time this has happened since June 2025, according to the latest figures from C&M Travel Recruitment.
Candidates searching for jobs in the travel industry dipped 16% compared to April 2026 and 2% from May 2025.
May also saw a fall in the number of new job opportunities, with the total falling by 7% from April 2026 and 26% from May 2025.
Placements were down 33% on April 2026 and 41% on May 2025.
Managing Director Barbara Kolosinska said: “After an unsteady few months in recruitment, global events are now clearly having an impact on many travel companies’ current staffing plans. While it is incredibly difficult to forecast, there are signs that we may be nearing the end of the Iran war and that the next few months could become more stable, but it is simply too early to tell.
“What is clear is that, despite the uncertainty, many candidates are still actively exploring current opportunities – and attractive roles with appealing salaries will be increasingly sought after.”
