While there is undoubtedly uncertainty around the upcoming independence vote, recruitment firms have every reason to feel optimistic, according to the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo).

Ann Swain, Chief Executive of APSCo, commented: “There is no doubt that there are likely to be funding constraints which may affect public sector related business – in the case of a Yes vote there will be the inevitable replacement and funding of a large number of UK provided services and whatever the outcome the referendum may well have a subduing effect on spending.”

However, APSCo says that despite the uncertainty surrounding the vote, the outlook for the Scottish recruitment market is looking extremely healthy. At APSCo’s recent Scottish Members’ Meeting, figures from Agile Intelligence revealed that the Scottish recruitment market is worth over £2.5 billion with an estimated gross profit (net fees) of placements transacted in Scotland in the region of between £500m and £450m. According to APSCo, just over 4% of all [UK] recruitment firms are based in Scotland.

Sue Dodd of Agile Intelligence, added: “Scottish firms on aggregate have seen average or above average net fees growth in 2014 and the outlook should remain positive as economic recovery broadens geographically and across more industry sectors. Despite the slowdown in North Sea production, there is continued strength in the energy job market together with some recovery in the financial services sector. We are also seeing signs of a wider upturn in business support services and construction.”

According to APSCo whatever the vote, it will continue to support Scottish professional recruitment firms.

Ms Swain concluded: “As the only recruitment trade body with an international footprint, we are used to representing firms in other countries. An independent Scotland will make no difference to the support and representation we will provide.”