The new research was conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce Insights Unit, in partnership with the recruitment firm, Pertemps Network Group.

What the research revealed was that:

• 43% of British firms had no plans to start using AI tech
• Only 25% of businesses were already using AI
• B2C organisations were the least likely to adopt AI (with 50% stating they had no intention of using AI technology
• 42% of British companies believed AI would increase their productivity
• However, 2% of British firms felt it would actually decrease productivity.

Overall, the BCC’s (British Chamber of Commerce’s) findings showed that 43% of the businesses responding had no plans to use AI, 25% said they were already using specific examples of AI, 8% weren’t sure if their business was using AI or not and 24% were planning to use AI at some point in the future.

Some of the biggest differences between firms came from the varying sectors involved with the research.

• B2B companies are the most likely to be using AI (33% of respondents)
• Manufacturing firms are the least likely to be using AI currently (only 19% of respondents were currently using AI)
• 49% of manufacturing firms said they had no plans to adopt AI tech.

All of these findings come from BCC’s Employment Trends Report 2024, with the goal of examining major trends that are affecting the British labour market, with a focus on changing skill needs.

“AI has the potential to significantly benefit many industries but, as our research with the BCC shows, there is still a nervousness about its applications. One of the areas it can help is addressing skills shortages. Our research shows that many businesses do not feel there are measures in place to address the current shortages and ensure they have a talent pipeline for the future. Only by working together, collaborating across all sectors and disciplines, and embracing new technology, can we tackle this. AI will play a crucial role. It can help free-up time for experienced professionals who, freed from some of the more mundane and process-driven tasks on their to-do lists, can spend time upskilling themselves and, also, mentoring those younger professionals coming through. It remains vital that all employers look at their offering to workers, ensuring there are able to access additional services and support, so that once you have attracted the right talent, the work environment you are offering is inclusive and supportive.”

Carmen Watson – Pertemps Network Group Chair

“AI technology is fast becoming a key part of the business landscape. It will have a huge impact on employment trends going forward. Our data is a stark reminder of the challenge ahead to get all firms equipped for the digital future. It’s encouraging to see 25% of businesses are now using AI – that’s progress from our survey this time last year. But nearly half of firms still don’t have plans to use the technology. Without direct action by the Government to help SMEs – many firms risk being left behind. Businesses need advice and support to make the digital steps forward. That support on AI will also help firms feel more confident in their future skills planning. The pace of technological change is speeding up, not slowing down. It’s vital that all businesses are given the opportunities to embrace AI”.

• Shevaun Haviland – Director General, British Chambers of Commerce