New analysis shows that AI adoption is accelerating, enabling businesses to be more efficient and competitive but – crucially – there has been little reduction in workforce numbers as a result.
National research by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) shows that 54% of UK firms are now using AI, up from 35% in 2025 and 25% in 2024.
Somerset businesses are mirroring the shift, as the county’s digital and data sector continues to expand, supported by new regional initiatives and the county’s strong innovation partnerships. 
The research also comes hot on the heels of the sell‑out Somerset AI Summit, hosted by Somerset Chamber of Commerce at the Firepool Centre for Digital Innovation in Taunton — an event that brought together business leaders, educators, and innovation specialists from across the county.
Somerset’s business landscape is dominated by SMEs, making AI adoption particularly significant.
The latest Chamber research shows that more than nine in 10 (95%) SMEs using AI report it has had no impact on workforce size over the past year, most firms (86%) say job roles have remained unchanged.
David Crew, Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, said: “Across Somerset, where many firms operate in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, defence, and professional services, AI is being used primarily to support existing staff, improve decision‑making and streamline administrative processes rather than replace roles.
“The Somerset AI Summit highlighted the same trend: businesses are eager to adopt AI in practical, accessible ways that enhance staff judgment, creativity and leadership, rather than displacing workers.”
But the BCC’s national findings show uneven adoption across sectors, with professional services and larger SMEs leading the way.
In Somerset, this pattern reflects the county’s own economic structure as high‑value industries identified in the Somerset Economic Prosperity Strategy—such as aerospace, energy, defence, and digital—are rapidly integrating AI. The county’s rural micro‑businesses and consumer‑facing sectors are adopting more gradually, reflecting differences in digital readiness and available skills.
Events like the annual Somerset AI Summit and the Chamber’s upcoming Ignite Somerset business and investment conference on June 30 are helping close these gaps by giving local firms direct access to expertise, technology providers and training support.
The BCC research indicates that SMEs already using AI expect strong net productivity improvements, while those planning to adopt remain far less optimistic.
Mr Crew added: “The sell‑out Somerset AI Summit showcased the county’s ambition: businesses here are not waiting for change—they are actively shaping the future.
“The Chamber will continue supporting members to adopt AI responsibly, improve productivity, and build a future‑ready workforce grounded in human leadership and innovation.”
According to the BCC research, which forms part of the new Chamber Future of Work: AI in the Workplace report:
The report concludes that the challenge ahead for UK businesses will be to harness the enormous benefits in productivity AI offers, while futureproofing education and careers.
It provides several recommendations for the Government and businesses to ensure AI is used responsibly and effectively across the labour market, including calls to:
The BCC is already leading the way on supporting businesses to adopt AI. The BCC AI Academy, launched in October 2025, is helping firms across the Chamber network embrace the new technology.
Patrick Milnes, Head of Policy: People and Work at the British Chambers of Commerce added: “Our research shows AI has rapidly moved from the margins of business to the mainstream.
“Businesses are reaping the productivity benefits. For many SMEs, AI is helping them work smarter, improve decision making and freeing up staff to focus on high value tasks.
“To future proof both firms and their workforces, government must work closely with business to get AI policy right. That’s about working together to build AI skills, support adoption and closely track the impact technology is having on workforces.
“With the right support in place, AI can be a powerful driver of growth, productivity and opportunity across the UK economy.”
You can read the full Future of Work: AI in the Workplace report here.
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