The Growth Paradox - UK SME Survey 2026

The Growth Paradox explores why UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain ambitious to expand yet face mounting barriers that hold them back.

Drawing on the CIMA® UK Insights SME Survey 2026 and in-depth interviews with SME leaders, the report highlights how rising tax pressures, labour shortages, skills gaps and policy uncertainty are constraining hiring, investment and productivity. It sets out clear, evidence-based recommendations for creating a more supportive policy environment, one that enables SMEs to grow with confidence and drive the UK’s future economic growth.