UK businesses brace for a tougher 2025

Economic challenges ahead. 56% of businesses expect 2025 to be tougher than 2024. 37% of organisations lack financial agility. This suggests many are unprepared for the expected headwinds. What headwinds? I mean, the UK is doing fine... right?

Pressure on finance teams. The UK's economic outlook is uncertain. Thus 76% of leaders see stress-testing financial health as more important than ever. 75% are saying that financial decisions must now be faster. This has intensified pressure on finance decision-makers.

Manual processes a major drag. Manual treasury tasks prevent 51% of finance leaders cannot focus on mission-critical work. On average, 163 working days are wasted, underlining the inefficiency of current systems.

Treasury tech gap. 73% of leaders say a single overview of all accounts and currencies is vital. However, most finance teams juggle seven tools, 40% of which are poorly integrated. Thus, 37% of businesses lack confidence in their financial visibility and responsiveness.

Outlook and priorities. 72% of leaders want to make excess cash “work harder” in the next 12 months. Signalling a push for better control, automation, and improved treasury tech stacks.

Sources

• UK Businesses Unprepared for Economic Difficulties in 2025, as Cash Flow Visibility Remains Low

• Pleo Enters the Treasury Space to Address the Lack of Financial Agility in UK Business