The Big Picture: Q1
Our UK business continued to grow steadily:
- About 1000 UK freelancers matched with projects
- 11% growth in matches compared to Q4 2024
We’re aiming for over 50% growth in 2025, so we expect these figures to climb further in the second half of the year. What we’re seeing across the market is cautious optimism, tempered by an uncertain business climate and the ongoing trade tensions. That said, Europe and the UK have held up better than the US in recent months. Could this be a turning point? A moment for Europe to wake up, reset and rebound?
Our most active clients this quarter came from:
- Retail
- Pharma
- Private Equity
- Management & Strategy Consulting
The most requested freelance roles ranged from high-level consulting to hands-on creative delivery. Here’s who UK companies needed most on Malt:
- Strategy & Management Consultants
- Communications Consultants
- Copywriters
- Project Managers
- Photographers
- Marketing Consultants
- UX/UI Designers
- Graphic Designers
- Software Engineers
- Illustrators
Freelancers on Malt worked on some truly standout projects this quarter, including:
- Supporting one of the largest FMCG manufacturers through an Interim Payroll Manager
- Driving digital transformation for one of the world’s top two payment companies with an Operational Excellence Consultant
- Delivering a digital campaign for a global healthcare leader
- Modelling data for the world’s largest beauty company
Community Highlights
From IR35 briefings to networking events and onboarding webinars, our UK client and freelancer community continued to build meaningful connections:
- We hosted a breakfast with several clients from the fintech, automotive and industrial sectors to discuss IR35 — supporting them in adopting a more balanced approach to the legislation and encouraging them to work more confidently with freelancers.
- Together with the team at Le Wagon, we hosted a Tech Talk on “Future-Proof Your Career with AI”. We explored how freelancers are uniquely positioned to bridge the AI gap — offering specialised expertise and flexibility to help companies deliver AI projects with speed and agility. Catch the recap here
What’s Coming in Q2?
- New Freelancer Onboarding webinars – next session is on 25 April - Register
- 2025-2026 Tax Year Prep – a webinar in partnership with Ember on 23 April - Register
- AI Productivity Session with Justin Tan - coming up on 12 June 2025 (the invite will follow)
Keep an eye on your inbox for invites - and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter!
Positive Signals for Freelancers in the UK
As we head into Q2, here are a few wider market trends worth highlighting:
Freelancing is a strategic choice for both professionals and the companies that hire them. At Malt, we’re excited to support that shift. Whether you're landing your first project or growing your freelance career longterm, we’re here to help you connect, build and thrive. Here’s to a strong Q2!
