M&A activity is intensifying against a backdrop of labour shortages in the essential-worker-related construction, logistics and staffing industries. A report has been released covering business performance trends and M&A activity in the first quarter of fiscal 2026.
Industry consolidation is gathering pace in essential-worker-related sectors such as construction, logistics and staffing, against a backdrop of declining birth rates, an ageing population and labour shortages. This report summarises business performance trends and M&A activity in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, and identifies strategic acquisitions and private equity investment as factors supporting industry growth.
The construction industry is performing steadily, supported by firm demand, while M&A activity is accelerating amid labour shortages. Major general contractors are also making a succession of acquisitions, driving consolidation aimed at strengthening their business foundations.
The logistics industry continues to post higher revenue and profits, driven by price revisions and improved transport efficiency, while consolidation, including large-scale transactions, is progressing mainly in truck logistics. Although rising costs are expected to place pressure on profits over the medium term, some companies have also announced upward revisions to their forecasts.
The staffing industry continues to grow against the backdrop of structural labour shortages. M&A and private equity investment aimed at strengthening specialist areas are active, and increased demand in the construction sectors served by staffing firms is particularly notable.
This report provides an overview of business performance trends and M&A activity across the 3 sectors of construction, logistics and staffing, offering material for understanding future developments in the essential-worker-related market.