Google states SMEs could free up one day a week by using AI tools
Small businesses could reclaim up to a full working day each week by adopting artificial intelligence (AI), according to new research from Google.
The tech giant, alongside research agency Public First, found that AI-powered tools could boost productivity among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by as much as 20%.
The findings suggest that tasks such as writing marketing content, developing plans, and managing admin could be streamlined with AI assistance.
Debbie Weinstein, Google’s EMEA president, said AI can help business owners turn ideas into action and communicate more effectively — particularly for people with learning differences like dyslexia.
She added: “It allows people to get their creative ideas out of their heads and into the real world.”
Google has pledged £5 billion in UK investment over the next two years to meet a spike in demand for AI services.
Its Workspace suite now includes Gemini, an AI assistant that supports writing, data analysis, and project planning.
The rise of AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot has already had a big impact on workflows in the UK’s biggest industries.
However, some recruitment experts are concerned.
They believe automation could replace certain roles, as firms look to cut back on headcount and labour costs.
Weinstein argued that upskilling will help businesses to integrate AI technology in the workplace.
With this in mind, Google has partnered with the Department for Business and Trade on a UK-wide tour, offering AI training pop-ups in Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh, and Cardiff.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the initiative will help SMEs “innovate, grow and compete on the global stage.”