A new Barclays survey shows that nearly nine in ten UK business leaders are now using AI to tackle pressing challenges such as rising energy costs and infrastructure demands. Of the 1,000 executives polled, 32% of firms have already recruited AI talent, while a further 42% plan to expand AI-focused hiring, highlighting the growing demand for specialist skills. On average, UK businesses invested £236,000 each in AI over the past year, reflecting a serious commitment to embedding AI into operations.
The findings echo wider adoption trends. Research from Moneypenny shows 39% of companies already use AI, with another 31% considering adoption. Of those already on board, 28% have rolled out AI across their entire organisation, while 40% are deploying it in specific areas—suggesting a steady move towards full integration.
At the executive level, enthusiasm is even clearer. PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEO Survey reports that 93% of UK CEOs have adopted generative AI in the past 12 months, outpacing the global average of 83%. More than half credit AI with improving employee efficiency, underscoring that adoption is already translating into productivity gains.
Economically, the UK AI sector is expanding rapidly. Forbes Advisor estimates the market is already worth over £21 billion, with potential to hit £1 trillion by 2035. More than 432,000 UK firms now use at least one form of AI technology, while the number of AI-focused companies has grown sixfold in the past decade.
Government data shows adoption varies by size: 68% of large firms, 34% of mid-sized firms, and 15% of SMEs have implemented AI tools. Meanwhile, AWS reports a 33% rise in UK AI adoption in the past year, with a new business adopting AI every 60 seconds.
Together, these insights suggest the UK is moving decisively towards becoming a global leader in AI adoption and responsible innovation. While smaller firms face barriers to scaling AI, momentum is strong—driven by investment, skilled recruitment, and leadership commitment. If sustained, the UK’s AI-enabled transformation could deliver major productivity boosts and long-term economic growth.
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