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Facing Midwest Hiring Challenges in June 2025? Here’s How Midwest Staffing Can Help

The labor market in the Midwest is more competitive than ever. As companies in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and beyond look to fill critical roles, they’re running into new and persistent talent acquisition challenges. Here’s what’s happening—and how Midwest Staffing Group is uniquely positioned to help your business thrive.

1. Skilled Worker Shortages Are Slowing Growth

The Midwest is experiencing a historic shortage of skilled workers. In Minnesota, there are only 53 available workers for every 100 open jobs (Minnesota Job Vacancy Survey), while Michigan’s ratio is only slightly better (Michigan Job Openings). This means longer hiring timelines, higher costs, and more competition for top talent.

How Midwest Staffing Group Responds

With over 30 years of experience in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro and a recent expansion into Fargo, ND, Midwest Staffing Group has built a deep network of qualified professionals. Whether you need contract, contract-to-hire, or direct hire solutions, Midwest Staffing can quickly connect you with the right candidates—so you can keep your business moving forward.

2. The Competition for Talent Is Fierce

Employers across the Midwest are competing for the same limited pool of skilled professionals. To stand out, you need more than just a job opening—you need a partner who understands your industry and your company culture.

Midwest Staffing Group’s Advantage

Midwest Staffing’s recruiters are known for their personal touch and industry expertise. Clients rave about the team’s responsiveness and dedication:

“Midwest Staffing has truly exceeded all my expectations. They do an incredible job of finding the right fit for our organization rather than just sending candidates and hoping they stick.”
— Recruiting Manager, National Steel Supplier

The team’s commitment to open, honest communication and deep understanding of your needs sets them apart from other agencies.

3. Creating a Seamless Candidate Experience

In today’s market, a positive candidate experience can make or break your hiring process. Slow communication or unclear expectations can cause you to lose top candidates.

Midwest Staffing Group’s Approach

Midwest Staffing prioritizes clear, timely communication and a supportive approach for both clients and candidates. Their recruiters serve as advocates, ensuring every interaction is positive and respectful. This not only attracts top talent but also strengthens your reputation as an employer of choice (Minnesota Labor Data).

4. Flexible Staffing Solutions for Every Need

Whether you need temporary help, contract-to-hire options, or direct hire recruiting, Midwest Staffing Group offers flexible solutions tailored to your business. They even provide professional recruitment services through their KeyStaff Professionals division.

“Midwest is a true partner. They are customer driven and collaborative—Midwest takes personal interest in their clients and truly cares about you and your business.”
— Human Resources, Manufacturing Company in Chaska

Ready to Overcome Your Hiring Challenges?

Don’t let talent shortages slow your growth. Partner with a staffing agency that’s proven, responsive, and truly invested in your success. Contact Midwest Staffing Group today to find out how their customized solutions can help your business thrive in 2025.

What the China-U.S. Trade War Means for Midwest Manufacturing

The China-U.S. trade war has placed Midwest manufacturers at a crossroads, forcing them to navigate a landscape marked by uncertainty, rising costs, and shifting supply chains. Here’s how these dynamics are playing out in the heartland-and what steps manufacturers can take to stay resilient.

Uncertainty and Planning Paralysis

Midwest manufacturers are grappling with a lack of clarity about future tariffs and trade policies. This uncertainty makes it difficult to plan long-term investments or major supply chain shifts. As one supply chain strategist put it, “the not knowing is worse” than even the harshest tariff scenario, leading many companies to freeze decision-making or delay critical moves1.

Supply Chain Constraints and Limited Alternatives

Many manufacturers in the Midwest have deep investments in China, whether through capital equipment, specialized materials, or established supplier relationships. For some, pivoting away from China is simply not feasible due to technical requirements or the lack of comparable alternatives. Even when alternate suppliers are available, quality and reliability may suffer, as seen when some companies tried to shift sourcing to India and encountered issues with product standards1.

Margin Pressure and Tariff Shock

Tariffs are squeezing profit margins, especially for companies importing finished goods or raw materials from China. For some, every unit shipped now results in a loss, and the impact varies depending on how much of their cost structure is tied to Chinese inputs. This has made cost control and operational efficiency more important than ever1.

A Catalyst for Innovation

Despite these challenges, the trade war is prompting innovation. Critical industries like semiconductors are already reshoring or diversifying production, and other sectors are following suit. The pressure is driving manufacturers to find cost-effective ways to meet customer demands, invest in new technologies, and rethink their operations for greater resilience1 3.

Strategic Steps for Midwest Manufacturers

Scout Alternative Suppliers: If possible, begin identifying and qualifying non-China suppliers.
Consider Partial Relocation: Evaluate whether contract manufacturing can be shifted, even partially, to countries like Mexico, India, or Vietnam.
Plan for Post-Trade War Demand: Prepare now for a potential rebound in demand by aligning labor strategies and ensuring capacity can scale quickly.
Build Flexibility: Stock up on critical materials, form flexible sourcing relationships, and set contingency plans to optimize local operations1.

Labor Remains the #1 Challenge

As manufacturers adapt, labor shortages and the need for specialized skills remain persistent challenges. The ability to scale up or down quickly, especially during periods of fluctuating demand or operational change, is crucial for maintaining competitiveness1 3.

Bottom Line:

The China-U.S. trade war is reshaping Midwest manufacturing, but with the right strategies-and the right workforce partner-you can turn uncertainty into opportunity. Midwest Staffing is here to help you stay agile, resilient, and ready for whatever comes next.

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How Using a Staffing Agency for Spring Seasonal Staffing Can Greatly Benefit Light Industrial Businesses

As spring arrives, light industrial and manufacturing sectors face increased demand due to seasonal fluctuations. Partnering with a staffing agency can provide a strategic advantage in managing these workforce challenges efficiently. Here are the key benefits of using a staffing agency for spring seasonal staffing in light industrial settings:

Key Benefits of Seasonal Staffing

1. Rapid Access to Skilled Workers

Staffing agencies maintain pools of pre-vetted workers with experience in assembly, machine operation, and warehouse logistics. This allows businesses to fill critical roles within days, not weeks. As noted by Essential Personnel, seasonal staffing agencies can quickly identify candidates with relevant experience, ensuring minimal training is needed to get them started1.

2. Cost-Effective Workforce Scaling

Hiring seasonal workers reduces long-term financial commitments like benefits and year-round salaries. You pay only for hours worked, which is particularly beneficial for industries experiencing unpredictable spring demand. This approach helps manage labor costs efficiently by hiring workers only when needed, as highlighted by Eclipse Light Industrial Staffing2.

3. Flexibility for Seasonal Demand Fluctuations

Staffing agencies provide flexible solutions that allow businesses to scale their workforce up or down as needed. This adaptability is crucial for companies dealing with seasonal demands or project-based work. KP Staffing emphasizes that light industrial staffing agencies help businesses navigate fluctuating demand by providing skilled and adaptable workers who can quickly scale up or down4.

4. Reduced Administrative Burden

Agencies handle payroll, taxes, and compliance, reducing the administrative load on HR teams. This allows internal staff to focus on strategic activities rather than recruitment logistics. Qualified Staffing notes that staffing agencies take on these responsibilities, enabling companies to concentrate on improving operational efficiency and driving business growth6.

5. Mitigating Employee Burnout

Seasonal staffing prevents overworking permanent employees, maintaining morale and productivity. By leveraging temporary workers during peak seasons, businesses can alleviate pressure on full-time staff and ensure they receive the same high level of service without burnout. Essential Personnel highlights this benefit as a key advantage of seasonal staffing1.

Industries That Benefit Most

Manufacturing – Increased spring production demands
Warehousing & Logistics – Seasonal inventory and shipping spikes
Construction Materials – Higher demand for building supplies

Best Practices for Spring Seasonal Hiring

Start early – Contact agencies 4-6 weeks before peak demand
Define clear job requirements – Ensure skills match production needs
Consider temp-to-hire – Evaluate workers for potential permanent roles

Conclusion

Partnering with a staffing agency ensures light industrial businesses can scale efficiently, control costs, and maintain productivity during spring demand surges. With access to skilled workers, reduced hiring headaches, and flexible staffing solutions, agencies provide a strategic advantage for seasonal hiring. For more insights on how seasonal staffing can support your business, consider reaching out to a reputable staffing agency like Midwest Staffing, which specializes in providing tailored staffing solutions for the Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area.

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Giving Back with Midwest Staffing at FMSC

Volunteering at Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) was an incredibly rewarding and eye-opening experience! Coming together with colleagues for a common cause not only strengthened our teamwork but also reinforced the importance of giving back. It was truly humbling to pack meals for children in need across the globe, knowing that our time and effort could make a real difference.

We’re proud to represent Midwest Staffing in service to others, and we encourage everyone to take part in this impactful mission. If you have the chance, we highly recommend volunteering with FMSC—you won’t regret it!

Giving Back with Midwest Staffing at FMSC at Midwest Staffing

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Light Industrial Trends 2025: How Temp Staffing is Shaping the Future

The light industrial sector is experiencing significant growth and transformation in 2025, with temporary staffing playing a crucial role in addressing labor shortages and driving innovation. As a leading temp agency, Midwest Staffing is at the forefront of these changes, helping businesses and job seekers alike navigate the evolving landscape.

Industry Growth and Opportunities

The manufacturing industry is projected to create over 75,000 new jobs in 2025, signaling robust growth in the light industrial sector1. This expansion is driven by several key trends:

Automation and Digital Transformation

Manufacturers are increasingly embracing smart factory solutions and automation to gain a competitive edge. In fact, 86% of manufacturing executives believe these technologies will be crucial for success in the coming years4. This shift is creating new opportunities for workers with skills in operating and maintaining advanced machinery.

Sustainability Focus

With 88% of companies prioritizing sustainability, the light industrial sector is seeing a surge in eco-friendly practices and technologies1. This trend is opening up new roles in sustainable manufacturing and green logistics.

Skills-Based Hiring

There’s a growing emphasis on practical abilities rather than formal education. In the light industrial sector, this means increased demand for workers with specialized skills in inventory management, forklift operation, and assembly line efficiency7.

The Role of Temporary Staffing

Temp agencies like Midwest Staffing are playing a vital role in addressing the challenges and opportunities in the light industrial sector:

Bridging the Skills Gap

Temporary staffing agencies offer access to a diverse pool of skilled workers, helping companies quickly fill specialized roles without long-term commitments9. This flexibility is particularly valuable in an industry with fluctuating demand.

Flexibility for Businesses

Midwest Staffing provides full-service contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire solutions, allowing businesses to scale their workforce efficiently8. This adaptability is crucial for companies dealing with seasonal demands or project-based work.

Career Growth for Individuals

For job seekers, temp work offers a pathway to enter the industry, gain valuable experience, and potentially secure long-term employment. Many companies use temporary positions as a “try-before-you-buy” approach to hiring3.

Rapid Response to Market Changes

With their extensive networks and efficient processes, staffing agencies like Midwest Staffing can quickly respond to urgent hiring needs, a common occurrence in the light industrial sector3.

Benefits for Businesses and Individuals

Partnering with a temp agency like Midwest Staffing offers numerous advantages:

For Businesses:

Quick access to skilled workers
Cost-effective staffing solutions
Flexibility to meet changing demands
Reduced administrative burden

For Job Seekers:

Diverse work experiences
Opportunity to develop new skills
Potential for permanent placement
Immediate income while exploring career options

As the light industrial sector continues to evolve, temporary staffing remains a key strategy for addressing labor shortages and driving growth. Midwest Staffing, with its commitment to customer service and successful client-candidate matching, is well-positioned to help both businesses and job seekers thrive in this dynamic environment8.

By embracing the trends of automation, sustainability, and skills-based hiring, while leveraging the flexibility and efficiency of temp staffing, the light industrial sector is poised for continued growth and innovation in 2025 and beyond.

Citations:

Hiring in 2025? What Minnesota’s Pay Discrimination Act Means for You

Minnesota’s Preventing Pay Discrimination Act: What Leaders Need to Know

Effective January 1, 2024, Minnesota’s Preventing Pay Discrimination Act prohibits employers from inquiring about an applicant’s salary history during the hiring process. This legislation aims to promote pay equity by ensuring compensation decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and market factors, rather than previous earnings.

Key Compliance Requirements for Employers

To adhere to the Preventing Pay Discrimination Act, employers should:

Avoid Salary History Inquiries: Refrain from asking applicants about their current or past wages, either directly or through third parties.
Base Pay on Qualifications: Ensure compensation decisions are grounded in skills, education, certifications, experience, and job market conditions.
Maintain Transparent Pay Practices: Develop clear pay structures and justifiable compensation models.
Enhance Pay Transparency in Job Postings: While not mandated, clearly stating salary ranges in job listings demonstrates a commitment to pay equity and can attract top talent.

How Midwest Staffing Can Help

At Midwest Staffing, we assist businesses in navigating these regulations while ensuring efficient and compliant hiring practices. Here’s how we can support you:

Transparent Hiring Process: We help companies establish clear and fair pay structures, ensuring compliance with Minnesota’s new regulations.
Market Insights: Our deep understanding of industry trends enables employers to set competitive and equitable wages based on the job market, not salary history.
Candidate Screening: We thoroughly assess applicants based on skills, experience, and job fit, ensuring compensation aligns with qualifications.
Strategic Talent Placement: Leveraging our expertise in matching candidates to the right roles, we help companies attract and retain top talent while adhering to fair pay practices.

By partnering with Midwest Staffing, employers can confidently comply with the Preventing Pay Discrimination Act while building a stronger, more equitable workforce. Contact us today to learn how we can streamline your hiring process!

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Spreading Holiday Cheer with Avivo’s Adopt a Family Program

This holiday season, Midwest Staffing Group and Keystaff Professionals were honored to partner with Avivo’s Adopt a Family Program to support local families in need.

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How Temporary Holiday Work is Perfect for Students

Temporary holiday jobs offer students a fantastic opportunity to gain work experience, earn extra cash, and make the most of the festive season. Here are some reasons and even a actual example of why temporary holiday work is perfect for students and tips for finding the right opportunities.

Employee Successes like “Astrid Cante Espinoza” prove that temp work can lead to great things when done right with the right help.

Client Quote: Astrid is an outstanding employee. She has perfect attendance, collaborates effectively with everyone, and puts in a strong effort. She is also on track to become a full-time employee in the bindery. Keep up the fantastic work, Astrid! We truly appreciate everything you do!

Holiday temp jobs give students flexible hours

Flexibility with Schedules

Temporary holiday jobs are often designed with flexibility in mind. Students can take advantage of roles with part-time hours or weekend shifts, making it easier to balance work with study schedules. Many employers offer evening or overnight shifts, which can be ideal for students who are busy during the day. Check them out here!

Valuable Work Experience

Holiday jobs give students exposure to real-world work environments. They can develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. Working in retail, hospitality, or event planning during the holiday season helps students build resumes with relevant experience.

Holiday temp jobs give savings with extra cash for expenses.

Extra Cash for the Holidays

For students, the holiday season often comes with added expenses for gifts, travel, or personal goals. A temporary job provides a much-needed financial boost. Many holiday positions also offer overtime pay, especially during peak times like Black Friday or the week before Christmas.

Networking Opportunities

Holiday jobs are a great way to meet new people, from coworkers to managers. These connections can lead to future job opportunities or serve as professional references for internships or long-term positions.

Easy Entry-Level Positions

Most temporary holiday roles don’t require extensive experience, making them ideal for students. Common positions include:

QA Inspector (click to view available job)
Event staff
Customer service representatives
Warehouse workers (click to view available job)

Perks Beyond Pay

Some employers offer seasonal workers discounts, free meals, or even bonuses for completing their contracts. These perks can be especially appealing to students who want to stretch their earnings further.

Pro Tip for Success

Students should apply early, as holiday jobs fill up quickly. Crafting a strong, tailored resume and preparing for quick interviews will improve chances of landing a position. PS: Midwest Staffing can help with all these things. Apply now to see how we can help.

Temporary holiday work provides students with an opportunity to grow professionally, earn money, and still enjoy the festive spirit. It’s the perfect stepping stone for future career success while making the most of the holiday season.

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TEMPORARY WORKERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE ACROSS INDUSTRIES

Temporary staffing has become an essential solution for businesses needing quick, reliable support. From boosting productivity to helping meet urgent deadlines, temp workers are proving their worth across industries like manufacturing and warehousing. At Midwest Staffing, we’re proud to see our temp workers stepping in to make a real difference.

1. Manufacturing Productivity Boost

In manufacturing, high demand and tight deadlines are constant challenges. We placed Alex, a temp warehouse worker, with a manufacturing facility that needed help meeting its production targets. With his attention to detail and safety, Alex quickly became an asset, increasing productivity and minimizing errors on the line. Impressed by his efficiency, the company offered him a full-time role.

Impact: Alex’s efforts allowed the company to keep up with orders, maintain quality standards, and reduce workplace injuries—demonstrating how temp workers bring value to the production floor. According to Manufacturing.net, temporary workers are crucial in supporting productivity and quality assurance in manufacturing environments, especially when output needs surge during busy periods (Manufacturing.net – The Role of Temporary Workers in Manufacturing).

2. Warehouse Efficiency During Peak Season

During a busy holiday season, a major warehouse required additional hands to manage inventory and shipping. We placed Sam, an experienced temp worker, who immediately improved the team’s workflow by reorganizing inventory, which made picking and packing more efficient. Sam’s dedication and ability to adapt to the fast-paced environment helped the warehouse meet its high-volume deadlines without compromising quality.

Impact: Sam’s contribution allowed the business to manage increased demand smoothly, reducing stress on permanent staff and keeping orders on schedule—proving the value of temps in seasonal warehousing. This flexibility is why many businesses turn to temporary staffing during peak seasons, as noted in Forbes.

3. Manufacturing Quality Assurance

One of our manufacturing clients needed temporary support to manage quality control during a product launch. We assigned Lisa, a temp worker with a background in quality assurance, who quickly integrated with the team. Her attention to detail and proactive communication helped prevent errors in production, leading to fewer defects and improved customer satisfaction.

Impact: Lisa’s role was instrumental in maintaining high product quality during a critical time, showing how temporary staff can help uphold quality standards under tight deadlines. For many manufacturers, temp workers offer a quick solution to meet quality demands, especially when output needs to increase rapidly, as discussed in the American Staffing Association.

4. Warehouse Inventory Management

With a large shipment incoming, a logistics company needed quick hires for warehouse inventory management. We placed Raj, a temp worker with inventory experience, who quickly optimized stock organization and helped the team reduce misplacements. His efficiency helped the warehouse maintain accurate inventory counts, reducing delays and ensuring smooth operations.

Impact: Raj’s work streamlined warehouse operations, showing how temp workers can provide efficient solutions for inventory management needs, especially during high-demand periods. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the importance of warehouse temp workers in supporting fluctuating workloads and inventory needs (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Employment and Wages in Warehousing and Storage).

Why Choose Temporary Staffing for Manufacturing and Warehousing?

These success stories illustrate how temporary staffing meets urgent hiring needs across manufacturing and warehousing. Temporary workers provide the flexibility, specialized skills, and efficiency that industries with fluctuating demand require, allowing businesses to achieve productivity goals and meet customer expectations.

To learn more about the benefits of temporary staffing, Indeed provides a comprehensive overview of how temp workers can support various industries with reliable, on-demand solutions (Indeed – Benefits of Temporary Staffing).

Looking to Hire Quickly? At Midwest Staffing, we connect you with skilled temp workers who can hit the ground running. From seasonal warehouse support to specialized roles in manufacturing, our candidates are ready to help your business meet its goals. Contact us today!

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MDI’s – Ability Bash

We had a fantastic time at MDI’s Ability Bash! This annual event raises funds for Unified Work and brings together incredible people for a night filled with food, fun raffles, auctions, and games—all for a great cause! We’re proud to be a part of it.