NEI Analytical Report: National Employment Index – A Key Indicator of Poland’s Labour Market Conditions (Q2 2026)

The National Employment Index (NEI) is a proprietary composite indicator developed by the Gremi Personal Analytical Centre to provide a broader view of Poland’s labour market in the context of overall economic conditions. It combines data on employment, labour costs, business sentiment and economic performance, helping businesses assess not only current trends but also their implications for workforce planning and decision-making. In Q2 2026, the NEI rose to 54 points, up 4 points both quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year, reaching its highest level since Q1 2023.

However, the increase in the Index does not yet signal a full recovery in the labour market. The improvement is being driven primarily by stronger economic indicators, while employment levels and job vacancies remain under pressure. At the same time, trends are becoming increasingly varied across sectors, with businesses remaining cautious about expanding their permanent workforce. Instead of broad-based hiring, companies are increasingly focusing on efficiency, employee retention, automation and flexible staffing models.

The report covers, among other topics:

• The NEI at 54 points and the key drivers behind its increase
• Changes across the four main NEI sub-indices
• Trends in employment, job vacancies and unemployment
• Wages and labour costs across key industries
• Developments in logistics, manufacturing, automotive, HoReCa and retail
• The role of foreign workers and temporary employment
• Companies’ hiring and wage plans
• The labour market outlook for the coming months of 2026

The analysis highlights widening differences between sectors. While automotive, light manufacturing and the furniture industry are reducing employment, stronger demand for workers can be seen in logistics, HoReCa, retail, food manufacturing and selected areas of construction and infrastructure.

The report draws on data from sources including Statistics Poland (GUS), the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), the National Bank of Poland (NBP), the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy (MRPiPS), Public Employment Services (PSZ) and recruitment platforms, as well as findings from the “Voice of the Market” survey conducted by the Gremi Personal Analytical Centre.

The NEI provides businesses with a practical perspective on the labour market, supporting decisions related to workforce planning, labour costs and operational continuity. Q2 data shows that improving economic conditions have not yet translated proportionally into employment growth, with companies increasingly relying on productivity gains, automation and flexible workforce models.

Download the full NEI report to find out what the 54-point result means for your business and how to prepare your workforce strategy for the coming months of 2026.