Jessica O'ConnorMillennials are disproportionately leaving payrolled employment, raising concerns about the long-term impact on productivity, consumer spending and future leadership, according to analysis by CV-Library.
The data showed that the 25 to 34 age group accounted for 76% of the overall reduction in payrolled employees between December 2024 and December 2025, despite this cohort typically being among the most economically active in the labour market.
CV-Library said the trend highlights growing pressures facing younger workers, with potential knock-on effects for employers, skills development and wider economic growth if sustained.
Lee Biggins, CEO and founder of CV-Library, said: “Millennials are in their prime ‘early-career’ phase, typically moving roles most, stepping into line management, and building the skills and experience that will last them for their entire working life.
“They are also key to economic activity with a relatively high propensity to spend, all while entering a formative stage in life – settling down and buying a house. Job uncertainty and lower earnings will undoubtedly have a significant impact on their spending power with profound economic impacts.
“The fact that the vast majority of those leaving payrolled work behind fall into this category should set the alarm bells ringing.
“The UK is at risk of gouging out the core of our workforce, causing big issues for future talent pipelines and the economy.
“Millennials are at a critical point in their life and career, making lifechanging decisions. Yet it’s the group being most let down by the current job market.”
