Despite the year-over-year declines, both staffing and commercial hours reached their highest levels so far this year, according to the latest SIA | Bullhorn Staffing Indicator report.

US staffing hours were down 8% year over year in the week ended Aug. 3. Commercial hours fell 8% year over year, while professional staffing hours dropped 9%.

“Competitive pressures remain elevated, but there are continuing and large opportunities for those staffing firms that have developed a competitive advantage via either their technology, their service offerings or both,” the report states.