“The market’s good”
One of the first questions I get asked, after nearly 15 years recruiting in the digital commerce space, is always the same: “How’s the market?”
Given how the last couple of years have gone, I’m pleased to say… it’s good. Actually, better than good. It’s taken a while to get here, and if it feels like it’s been a long time coming – that’s because it has.
Let me break it down:
There’s budget again: not reckless spending, but cautious investment is happening. That hasn’t been the case for a while.
Hiring sentiment is up: companies are planning, talking about, and forecasting growth in this financial year.
New projects are gaining traction: Commerce, PIM, CMS, Search… I’ve heard of multiple new initiatives signed off in Q2 alone.
Industry-wide data shows a 20% increase in digital commerce job adverts in Q2 2025 vs Q2 2024.
Simply Commerce-specific stats from Q2: Most new jobs added in a single quarter for two years. Most placements made in a quarter for two years. Most revenue booked and billed in a quarter for two years.
So yes, we’re feeling positive, and hopefully that helps explain why. But (and there’s always a but), we’re also staying grounded. Summer can be slower. And with ongoing global instability, we know things can change quickly.
Meanwhile, AI continues to dominate every conversation,and rightly so. There’s no sign of that slowing down so if you’re looking for a smart area to upskill in, AI is the obvious choice. Just make sure you do your homework first.
Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month
- Nike has reported an 86% drop in quarterly profits as it grapples with a sharp decline in sales, a costly corporate revamp, and a $1bn hit from US tariffs READ MORE
- Boots UK has continued to outperform the high street, reporting a 5% increase in total sales for the three months to the end of May – its 17th consecutive quarter of market share gains READ MORE
- ASOS.com cracks down on serial returners, closing accounts that breach its fair use policy. The retailer said a “small group” of customers will be impacted READ MORE
- Marks and Spencer restarted online sales following a cyber-attack over the Easter weekend in April, which is expected to cost (gross) around £300m. The retailer reintroduced key clothing lines, with more products to follow READ MORE
- River Island may close 33 stores (from 250) and attempt to cut rents on 71 more as part of major restructuring plans, putting jobs at risk. The retailer reported a £33.2m pre-tax lose in FY23 as sales fell 19% READ MORE
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