The agency work industry continued to grow globally in 2008, despite decline in key markets such as the USA and the UK. Around the world, just over 9.5 million agency workers [in full-time equivalents] were employed daily, through 171.000 branches and amounting to total sales revenues of € 232 billion. The agency work industry is one of the largest private employers worldwide. However, it remains a rather small - yet significant and certainly potent sector - accounting for 2.2% of the working population in Japan and 1.7% in Europe and the USA.

Some key figures on the industry:

• There are 71.000 private employment agencies [PrEAs] worldwide totalising 171.000 branches.

• Total worldwide turnover in 2008 was € 232 billion, down from € 234 billion in 2007 [-1%]. Global turnover being calculated in euros, the weakness of the US dollar in 2008 had a negative impact on its calculation.

• Japan and the USA are the global leaders by total annual sales revenues, accounting for 21% each, followed the UK [15%].

• Europe is the leading regional entity with 48% of total worldwide sales revenues [€ 111 billion].

• In 2008, just over 9.5 million agency workers [in full-time equivalents] were employed across the world.

• Agency work penetration rate is 2.2% in Japan and 1.7% in Europe and the USA.

• The majority of agency workers are less than 30 years old.

• 81% of companies use agency work to manage economic fluctuations.