SAP News Center · 14 Oct, 11:01 · Business briefing

Average UK business spending £20.6 million on AI, with returns set to rise to 39% by 2028

UK businesses are significantly increasing their investment in artificial intelligence, with average spending reaching £20.6 million.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

UK businesses are significantly increasing their investment in artificial intelligence, with average spending reaching £20.6 million. According to recent analysis, this substantial financial commitment is projected to yield stronger returns, rising to thirty-nine percent by 2028. This trend highlights a strategic shift where AI is no longer merely an experimental technology but a core driver of commercial value. Organisations are prioritising AI integration to enhance operational efficiency and profitability. The data suggests a clear correlation between increased expenditure on AI infrastructure and improved financial outcomes. Professionals across sectors should note this accelerating adoption rate, as it signals a fundamental change in how value is created and measured within modern enterprises.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

You must adapt your skill set to remain relevant as AI becomes central to business operations. Technical proficiency in data analysis and machine learning is increasingly valuable, but so is the ability to translate AI capabilities into commercial strategy. You should focus on understanding how AI drives return on investment rather than just its technical mechanics. Professionals in project management, finance, and operations need to grasp AI’s impact on workflows. You should actively seek opportunities to lead or participate in AI implementation projects. Upskilling in data literacy will distinguish you from peers who ignore this shift. Engage with internal AI initiatives to demonstrate practical value. You must position yourself as a bridge between technical teams and business objectives, ensuring that investments deliver measurable results.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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