UK businesses balance AI adoption with governance challenges

Businesses are gaining new tools and advisory support to deploy AI, while governance, skills and operating models remain obstacles to wider adoption. Ankura has launched its AI by Design practice for EMEA clients, saying many enterprises struggle to move beyond pilots because those capabilities lag demand. Omnissa’s Elara beta gives IT teams a policy layer to monitor unsanctioned AI use and approve high-risk changes before they happen.

Finance and cybersecurity applications are also expanding. ApprovalMax has introduced AI checks that flag supplier bills for finance teams using Xero and QuickBooks Online, while leaving final approval decisions to humans. London startup CodeWall raised USD $4 million to expand autonomous attack testing as businesses face more frequent, AI-driven cyber threats.

AI is also changing how brands monitor search visibility and how consumers compare prices. London-based Obsero raised USD $1.2 million to expand its team and develop AI search tools. Consumer surveys indicate interest in AI-powered bargain hunting, but most shoppers still reject software buying clothes on their behalf.