AI adoption could unlock 105bn revenue boost for UK mid-sized firms by 2030

"Artificial intelligence could generate more than £105 billion in additional revenue for the UK's mid-sized companies by the end of the decade, according to new economic modelling that highlights how rapidly AI is reshaping the country's business landscape. The research, conducted by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) on behalf of HSBC UK, suggests that businesses embedding AI across their operations are beginning to pull away from competitors that are slower to adopt the technology."

"The analysis focuses on Britain's mid-sized businesses, companies with annual revenues between £15 million and £300 million, often described as the 'engine room' of the UK economy because of their ability to combine the agility of smaller firms with the investment capacity of larger organisations. There are around 35,000 such companies operating across the UK. In 2025 they generated 23 per cent more value per employee than the wider economy."

"Two years ago, only around 35 per cent of mid-sized companies were using AI in some form. By the end of 2025 that figure had climbed sharply to 55 per cent, reflecting the rapid mainstream adoption of large language models, advanced analytics and workflow automation tools across many industries. However, the report notes that a clear distinction exists between businesses experimenting with AI and those embedding it deeply within core business functions."

UK mid-sized companies—those with revenues between £15 million and £300 million—could generate over £105 billion in additional revenue through AI adoption by 2030. Research by the Centre for Economics and Business Research shows AI adoption among these firms has surged from 35 percent two years ago to 55 percent by end of 2025. However, a significant gap exists between companies merely experimenting with AI and those embedding it into core operations. Approximately 24 percent are classified as productive adopters. HSBC UK launched a £5 billion AI & Productivity Financing Initiative to support businesses investing in AI technology, skills, and systems. Mid-sized companies represent the UK economy's engine room, generating 23 percent more value per employee than the wider economy.

Read at Business Matters