A third of British businesses are planning to invest in artificial intelligence in 2026 as firms sharpen their focus on productivity, skills and technology in an increasingly competitive market.
Research from Lloyds Bank shows that AI is becoming a central pillar of growth strategies, with companies looking to automate processes, improve efficiency and strengthen long-term competitiveness.
The Lloyds Business Barometer, based on a survey of 1,200 firms, found that productivity improvement is the top priority for businesses heading into the next year. Alongside AI investment, 35 per cent of companies said they plan to invest in team training in 2026, recognising that new technologies require new skills to deliver real value.
Paul Kempster, managing director for commercial banking coverage at Lloyds Business & Commercial Banking, said the findings highlighted a shift towards more strategic, future-focused investment.
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