As we get close to 2026, many people are thinking about their jobs and planning ways to improve their chances of finding good work. The UK job market is still slow in some areas, with companies being careful about hiring due to higher costs. However, there is strong need for workers in certain fields. These include logistics, warehousing, transport, manufacturing, and hospitality – the main areas where MAK Jobs helps people find roles.

Recent reports show ongoing shortages in hands-on jobs. For example, there is high demand for HGV drivers, warehouse workers, and customer service staff in hospitality. These jobs will stay important. At the same time, new technology is changing these roles, so digital skills and the ability to adapt are becoming key.

Key Jobs in Demand and Skills Needed for 2026

1. Logistics and Transport
There is a continued shortage of drivers, especially for HGVs (Class 1 and Class 2), vans, and specialist vehicles. Employers look for reliability, good time management, and safe driving. New skills include using route-planning apps, handling electric vehicles, and following green rules.
Suggested Resolution: Get or renew qualifications like Driver CPC or ADR (for dangerous goods). Try basic courses in tracking systems or GPS tools to work more efficiently.

2. Warehousing and Distribution
Online shopping growth means more need for warehouse staff, picker-packers, and stock managers. Forklift skills are very important, along with knowing modern stock systems.
Suggested Resolution: Get a forklift licence or training in warehouse software. Learn about automation, such as robots for picking or RFID tags, to fit into up-to-date warehouses.

3. Manufacturing
Jobs in production, machine operation, and quality checks remain steady. With smarter factories, basic tech skills like simple programming for machines and teamwork across departments are valued.
Suggested Resolution: Take courses in lean manufacturing or basic automation. Focus on safety and ways to improve processes.

4. Hospitality
Even with challenges from higher wages in lower-paid roles, tourism and events are creating jobs for customer service staff, chefs, and managers. Key skills include staying calm under pressure and creating great experiences for guests.
Suggested Resolution: Improve people skills with customer service training. Get certificates in food safety or event planning to stand out.

In all these areas, skills that transfer between jobs – such as using computers, making decisions based on data, and working in teams – are highly valued. Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and staying strong during tough times are also important, as machines take over simple tasks.

Practical Steps to Keep Your Resolutions

To turn your plans into real results:

• Check Your Current Skills: Compare what you can do now with job adverts in your chosen field.

• Find Easy Training: Use online courses, apprenticeships, or short industry programmes, like forklift licences or Driver CPC, are quick and often paid for by employers.

• Build Networks and Get Advice: Talk to recruitment experts for tailored guidance on new opportunities.

• Monitor Your Progress: Set small targets, such as finishing one qualification by the middle of 2026.

At MAK Jobs, we have helped thousands of people secure roles in these busy sectors, often arranging training through our partners. Improving your skills not only boosts your own career but also helps these important industries.

As 2026 starts, make a commitment to grow. Contact MAK Jobs today to find roles that match your new skills and start a rewarding job in these key sectors. Your next step forward is waiting.

As we get close to 2026, many people are thinking about their jobs and planning ways to improve their chances of finding good work. The UK job market is still slow in some areas, with companies being careful about hiring due to higher costs. However, there is strong need for workers in certain fields. These include logistics, warehousing, transport, manufacturing, and hospitality – the main areas where MAK Jobs helps people find roles.

Recent reports show ongoing shortages in hands-on jobs. For example, there is high demand for HGV drivers, warehouse workers, and customer service staff in hospitality. These jobs will stay important. At the same time, new technology is changing these roles, so digital skills and the ability to adapt are becoming key.

Key Jobs in Demand and Skills Needed for 2026

1. Logistics and Transport
There is a continued shortage of drivers, especially for HGVs (Class 1 and Class 2), vans, and specialist vehicles. Employers look for reliability, good time management, and safe driving. New skills include using route-planning apps, handling electric vehicles, and following green rules.
Suggested Resolution: Get or renew qualifications like Driver CPC or ADR (for dangerous goods). Try basic courses in tracking systems or GPS tools to work more efficiently.

2. Warehousing and Distribution
Online shopping growth means more need for warehouse staff, picker-packers, and stock managers. Forklift skills are very important, along with knowing modern stock systems.
Suggested Resolution: Get a forklift licence or training in warehouse software. Learn about automation, such as robots for picking or RFID tags, to fit into up-to-date warehouses.

3. Manufacturing
Jobs in production, machine operation, and quality checks remain steady. With smarter factories, basic tech skills like simple programming for machines and teamwork across departments are valued.
Suggested Resolution: Take courses in lean manufacturing or basic automation. Focus on safety and ways to improve processes.

4. Hospitality
Even with challenges from higher wages in lower-paid roles, tourism and events are creating jobs for customer service staff, chefs, and managers. Key skills include staying calm under pressure and creating great experiences for guests.
Suggested Resolution: Improve people skills with customer service training. Get certificates in food safety or event planning to stand out.

In all these areas, skills that transfer between jobs – such as using computers, making decisions based on data, and working in teams – are highly valued. Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and staying strong during tough times are also important, as machines take over simple tasks.

Practical Steps to Keep Your Resolutions

To turn your plans into real results:

• Check Your Current Skills: Compare what you can do now with job adverts in your chosen field.

• Find Easy Training: Use online courses, apprenticeships, or short industry programmes, like forklift licences or Driver CPC, are quick and often paid for by employers.

• Build Networks and Get Advice: Talk to recruitment experts for tailored guidance on new opportunities.

• Monitor Your Progress: Set small targets, such as finishing one qualification by the middle of 2026.

At MAK Jobs, we have helped thousands of people secure roles in these busy sectors, often arranging training through our partners. Improving your skills not only boosts your own career but also helps these important industries.

As 2026 starts, make a commitment to grow. Contact MAK Jobs today to find roles that match your new skills and start a rewarding job in these key sectors. Your next step forward is waiting.​