AI adoption stalls in large enterprises as doubts grow over returns

"AI adoption among large enterprises has dipped slightly, even as overall use of the technology continues to rise across the corporate landscape. New figures from the US Census Bureau show that uptake among companies with more than 250 employees fell from a peak of around 14 per cent to 12 per cent in recent summer surveys. The decline, though modest, points to hesitancy among larger businesses that have already committed billions to AI infrastructure, including data centres and rollout support. Analysts suggest the slowdown reflects frustration with unclear returns on investment."

"Across all companies surveyed, however, adoption remains on an upward trajectory. The Bureau's biweekly survey of 1.2 million US businesses found that 9.7 per cent of respondents had used AI in the past two weeks, up from 8.8 per cent previously. Forward-looking sentiment is also strengthening, with 13.7 per cent of companies expecting to adopt AI for producing goods or services within six months. Yet nearly two-thirds still report no plans to use AI at all, underscoring that mainstream adoption is still emerging."

"Industry leaders caution that the figures do not mean companies are walking away from AI altogether. Sheila Flavell CBE, chief operating officer of FDM Group, said the dip demonstrates the limits of deploying AI without adequate training and strategy. "AI can only deliver value when people know how to use it effectively," she explained. "When organisations implement practical, hands-on training, it builds confidence and helps employees understand how AI can support their roles.""

Adoption among companies with more than 250 employees declined from about 14 per cent to 12 per cent in recent summer surveys, indicating hesitancy among larger firms despite prior heavy investment in AI infrastructure. Analysts attribute the slowdown to frustration over unclear returns on investment. Across all firms, 9.7 per cent reported using AI in the past two weeks, up from 8.8 per cent, and 13.7 per cent expect to adopt AI within six months for producing goods or services. Nearly two-thirds report no plans to use AI. Leaders highlight training, strategy, security, and governance as prerequisites for value delivery.

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