As the UK Government places this sector at the forefront of its Industrial Strategy, mid-market businesses have a unique opportunity to explore long-term growth and investment opportunities.

David Weaver, our Head of Professional and Business Services, says: “A successful PB&S sector is critical to the prosperity of the wider UK economy, and we’re pleased to see the sector placed front and centre of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy.

“This gives firms confidence to focus on longer term growth and investment opportunities. We are here to support firms deliver on their ambitions and take advantage of these opportunities.”

By focusing on technology adoption, workforce development, and global trade, you could position your business for sustainable growth.

Here are some pointers on ways you could unlock your full potential and get future-ready.

The UK is making strides in becoming a global leader in the ethical implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in P&BS, David says.

The government is launching AI adoption programmes and expanding research and development investments, particularly in emerging areas like LawTech and PropTech.

By evaluating their digital readiness, piloting AI tools, and forming partnerships with technology providers and academic institutions, you could position your mid-market firm for sustainable growth.

You can access support through several organisations including Innovate UK for funding and collaboration, and Lawtech UK for legal innovation resources. Additionally, the Cyber Resilience Centre offers crucial cybersecurity support.

Talk to us to explore funding solutions for technology and cyber security and look out for our sector-specific insights on technology trends.

For more details on harnessing technology's potential, read our article.

The competition for talent in the P&BS sector is intense, with larger city firms often attracting more candidates than regional hubs.

Talent shortages persist across all levels and regions, particularly in digital, climate and cybersecurity roles. There is also high wage inflation being driven by international firms, especially from the US expanding into the UK.

Attracting and retaining top talent is essential for the sector's future. To build a skilled and agile workforce, consider investing in training programmes focused on AI, digital, and sustainability skills.

Offering apprenticeships, particularly at Level 7, and collaborating with local education providers to develop training pathways could help address talent shortages, David says.

To address these challenges, you could tap into resources like Skills England's training programmes and the upcoming AI Skills Hub set to launch in 2025.

Did you know we support the sector by providing annual reports that analyse trends and challenges, plus actionable insights?

Read about strategies for nurturing talent in the competitive market in this article.

The UK’s Industrial Strategy aims to enhance P&BS exports and foster regional growth through new trade agreements and the establishment of P&BS Hubs in key city regions.

These initiatives are designed to unlock international markets and drive local economic growth.

Now could be the right time to explore export opportunities, assess your readiness for international expansion, and engage with local P&BS hubs for support.

Despite being the second-largest exporter of P&BS globally, firms continue to face challenges in qualification recognition and digital infrastructure. Initiatives to open new markets, such as trade dialogues with the EU and India, are underway.

Support is available through the Department for Business and Trade for guidance on global trade, and UK Export Finance for financial backing.

We also offer tailored support and trade expertise and facilitate connections with local businesses and trade bodies across the P&BS ecosystem. 

For more insights on the P&BS sector including annual reports, webinars and articles please visit our Professional and Business Services hub.