Amex’s annual Business Barometer research surveyed 1,000 senior decision makers at UK micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. Freeing up time was identified as a key challenge by respondents, with over a quarter (28%) admitting they struggle to step away from day-to-day operations, and about one in four (24%) saying there aren’t enough hours in the day to dedicate to growing their business.   

Respondents are prioritising new technology in efforts to tackle this challenge; last year the Amex survey found almost a third (31%) of SMEs had no plans to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their business; this year over two-fifths (43%) of small, and more than half (53%) of medium-sized businesses, are planning to do so in the next 12 months – with the specific goal of freeing up time to focus on growth-related activities. Other strategies cited to help unlock time include rolling out Customer Relationship Management tools, outsourcing specific tasks, and leaning on suppliers and partners for greater support.  

When asked about business development activities they would prioritise if they had more time, SME leaders ranked networking and industry events (28%), marketing and brand building (27%), and product innovation (24%) among their top priorities.

Regardless of their time challenges, the research, conducted in partnership with Small Business Saturday UK, found that optimism is high among respondents, with six in 10 (60%) expecting stronger business performance in the final quarter of 2025 (Oct-Dec) compared to the same period over the last two years. 

Ruchi Sharma, Vice President, UK Commercial at American Express, said: “Small business owners often share the challenge of finding time to focus on growth, rather than being caught up with day-to-day demands. That’s why it’s positive to see them embracing new strategies that free up time for activities that fuel business growth, and they remain optimistic for the period ahead. At American Express, we are committed to backing these businesses with the products and tools that can help them thrive.” 

As SME leaders look for ways to unlock time, many also recognise the link between personal wellbeing and business performance, with three-quarters (75%) believing the better they feel, the more successful their business is. 

Through its Small Business Cards and Corporate Cards, American Express provides tools that help business owners drive efficiencies, manage cashflow and support growth. Business owners can also earn Membership Rewards points on everyday business spend, which can be redeemed on travel, experiences or purchases – that may help support their life outside, as well as inside, work.

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