UK AI adoption remains uneven in 2026

AI adoption among UK businesses is rising, but the market remains far from universal. Government-commissioned research put usage at around one in six businesses, while the Office for National Statistics recorded closer to a quarter by late 2025, reflecting differences in methodology and definitions.

The data points to a clear size divide. Around 36% of large businesses report using AI, compared with roughly 23% of medium-sized firms and just 14% of micro businesses. Larger organisations are better placed to deploy AI because they typically have stronger data foundations, bigger budgets and in-house expertise, while smaller firms often cite limited skills and a lack of identified need.

Investment plans suggest adoption could accelerate. Around two-thirds of organisations expect to increase AI budgets, with spending intentions running ahead of current use. The next phase for many firms will depend on applying AI to defined business problems, building governance and proving measurable gains in productivity, service, delivery or commercial performance.