In 2026, UK SMEs are likely to face various challenges and opportunities. According to Aviva, the key concerns for business leaders include:1. Economic uncertainty: The ongoing impact of Brexit, inflation, and global market fluctuations may continue to affect business confidence and investment decisions. 2. Talent acquisition and retention: Attracting and retaining skilled workers will remain a priority, as SMEs compete with larger companies for top talent. 3. Digital transformation: Business leaders will need to adapt to emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analytics, to remain competitive. 4. Sustainability and environmental concerns: SMEs will be expected to prioritize environmental sustainability, reduce carbon footprints, and comply with increasingly strict regulations. 5. Access to funding: Securing funding and managing cash flow will continue to be a challenge for many SMEs, as they navigate changing lender requirements and explore alternative funding options. 6. Regulations and compliance: Business leaders must stay up-to-date with changing regulations, such as GDPR, and ensure their companies are compliant to avoid potential fines and reputational damage. 7. Skills and training: Investing in employee development and upskilling will be crucial to address the skills gap and prepare workers for the changing job market. 8. Cybersecurity: As technology advances, SMEs will need to prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect their businesses from increasingly sophisticated threats. 9. Supply chain resilience: Building robust and resilient supply chains will be essential to mitigate the risks of disruption, Brexit, and other external factors. 10. Mental health and wellbeing: Business leaders will need to prioritize the mental health and wellbeing of their employees, as well as their own, to maintain a healthy and productive workforce.

by | Oct 15, 2025 | Aviva Life Insurance, Insurance

Rebecca Gambrell, the managing director of SME and Delegated Authorities at Aviva, has expressed her thoughts on the current state of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). According to her, SMEs are crucial to the well-being of local communities, and it is...