A strong market for temporary workers has helped Randstad UK report sturdy growth in its annual financial results.

The UK division of the Dutch recruitment firm achieved revenue of £36.6m for its fourth quarter, an increase of 27% on the same period in 2003. For the financial year to 31 December 2004, revenue rose by 18% to more than £120m.

“Traditionally, temps have been significantly undervalued in the UK, compared to other parts of Europe where being a temporary worker is seen as the ultimate status symbol,” said managing director Hans Hoogeveen. “However, UK attitudes are changing with ‘flex workers’ gradually being seen as the perfect solution to meeting the needs of employers and employees.”

Hoogeveen said Randstad had experienced particular growth in offering in-house services to clients and on-site support for manufacturing customers.

The firm has also now launched a permanent business alongside its temporary offering.