Michael Page Reports Higher Interim Profit as Asia-Pacific and Americas Drive Growth

London: British recruitment firm Michael Page reported a sharp increase in first-half pre-tax profit, with strong performances in the Asia-Pacific and Americas regions offsetting weaker hiring activity in other markets amid persistent geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

For the six months ended June 2026, the company posted pre-tax profit of £6.5 million, a significant improvement from £0.2 million recorded during the same period last year. The rebound reflects the firm’s continued cost-control measures and resilient demand in key international markets despite a subdued global recruitment environment.

Michael Page said growth in the Asia-Pacific region was particularly robust, supported by strong hiring activity in markets including China, Japan, and India. The Americas also recorded positive growth, helping to compensate for weaker recruitment conditions in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), where employers remain cautious due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic uncertainty.

The recruitment sector has faced challenging conditions in recent years as companies have delayed permanent hiring decisions in response to economic volatility, trade uncertainties, and global conflicts. Recruiters have increasingly focused on cost reductions and temporary or contract placements to protect profitability.

Despite the uneven global hiring landscape, Michael Page expressed confidence in its diversified international business model and said it expects market conditions to improve gradually as employer confidence strengthens. The company indicated it remains focused on disciplined cost management while continuing to invest in growth opportunities across high-performing regions.