- SMB leaders fear not having enough time to focus on growth
- AI could hold the key, but skills shortages still block progress
- Many prepare to invest more if the economy allows
We already know how important SMEs are for the world economy – in the United Kingdom, for example, these companies represent 99% of the commercial population – but many are likely to be delayed if they do not use AI, have said new reports.
AMEX’s research indicates that more than a quarter (28%) of SME managers find it difficult to move away from daily tasks, and 24% agree that there are not enough hours during the day to develop their business.
To deal with it, almost half (43%) of small businesses and 53% of medium -sized companies plan to adopt AI in the next 12 months, and 60% of SMEs expect higher performance in the last three months of 2025 compared to the last two years.
Is AI sufficient to save our SMEs?
Distinct research in Barclays has revealed that nine British (89%) companies are planning to use AI within two years to help data analysis, forecasting, customer experience and cost reduction.
However, almost three years after the launch of the Public Overview of Chatgpt (credited with the popularization of AI tools), companies are still faced with the same IA shortages and digital skills – an even more pronounced concern among financial services, IT / telecommunications and the technological sector itself.
“AI becomes a key tool to stimulate innovation, encourage investments and increase productivity,” noted the CEO of Barclays UK Corporate Banking, Matt Hammerstein.
Barclays found that British companies planned to invest in training (42%), digital products (37%) and R&D (37%) to support long -term growth, but the imminent and delayed fall budget is very short in the short term.
Inflation (33%) and the increase in public services costs (22%) are considered major obstacles to business growth, 39%had to adjust budgets due to energy costs and many others invest in efficiency or renewable energies. Another in four (26%) has achieved costs to customers.
Barclays Business Banking, MD Abdul Qureshi, noted optimism: “Despite economic and energy challenges, British companies are pursuing skills and skills to unlock productivity and growth.”
