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New research reveals that UK businesses are struggling to meet growth ambitions amidst execution challenges and external pressures
One of the most significant findings from the research is the role of people in either enabling or impeding strategy execution. Over half of decision-makers( 50.4 %) identified talent and capability gaps as the primary barrier to effective strategy delivery.
The study also found that despite widespread ambition, only 23.6 % of large UK companies are embracing a truly innovative and disruptive mindset. The majority( 61.20 %) were found to only pursue innovation incrementally and / or when necessary, rather than proactively. new survey of UK enterprises by Strategy Management
A Partners reveals a stark contrast between the growth aspirations of these companies and its ability to execute effectively.
Only 18.4 % of businesses achieve more than 80 % of its aspirational growth goals within three years of setting them. Additionally, almost half( 41.2 %) of companies fail to achieve 60 % or more of its stated targets in this timeframe, indicating a widespread struggle with consistent execution.
Only 46 % of firms have a clearly measurable value gap between its current and desired future state – a key metric for aligning strategy with outcomes.
Muibat Ijaiya, Partner at Strategy Management Partners, said:“ Overall, this research provides valuable insights into what UK enterprise leaders are experiencing in terms of executing growth strategies in a globally connected world. As businesses navigate this complex environment, a sharper focus on execution readiness, talent development and data-driven performance monitoring will be essential to bridging the gap between ambition and achievement.”
Adsum & QuickBooks deliver £ 1.2 million in VAT refunds in first three months
Adsum, a leading innovator in digital tax solutions, has experienced a surge in customer adoption following its integration with QuickBooks Online. This collaboration introduces InstantVAT to QuickBooks customers, a pioneering solution designed to accelerate VAT repayments, significantly improving cash flow for business owners.
Who is eligible for InstantVAT?
InstantVAT is available to all UK VAT-registered businesses that are in a refund position.
How to get started with InstantVAT:
Since its launch in December 2024, InstantVAT has unlocked over £ 1.16 million in cash flow for QuickBooks users, saving businesses an estimated 610 days( 1.67 years) of waiting time for VAT repayments.
The service seamlessly connects to a business’ s HMRC account, monitoring submissions and releasing payments as soon as HMRC verifies the return.
Getting started with InstantVAT is a simple process. Businesses can create an InstantVAT account using its QuickBooks credentials, ensuring a smooth set-up. After activating the service, businesses will start receiving VAT refunds immediately upon HMRC verification.
Greg Wixted, Founder of Britain Loves Baking, said:“ I had three returns to do, and as soon as they were accepted, I was paid out in minutes. Amazing how much getting the VAT money back earlier means to a business.”
Nigel Burton from Inter Recruitment said:“ A fantastic service. We posted our VAT return on Thursday evening, and the money was in our account by Monday morning. This saved weeks of waiting through HMRC at a minimal cost. I would definitely recommend Adsum to any business.”
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