Productivity amongst small businesses 'held back by poor broadband'

19 Dec 2018

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has warned that productivity amongst UK small firms is 'still being held back' by poor broadband and mobile coverage.

The FSB's warning comes in response to Ofcom's annual Connected Nations report, which revealed that, while the availability of superfast broadband has increased, only 90% of small businesses are able to access superfast speeds.

Meanwhile, 18% of rural firms 'still lack a decent broadband connection', according to the report. It also revealed that rural businesses receive just 41% of 4G coverage.

It is 'imperative' that small firms are connected to a basic level of broadband 'without delay', the FSB stated.

'Access to fast and reliable broadband and good mobile signal is vital for small businesses,' said Mike Cherry, National Chairman of the FSB.

'There are still so many firms coming up against agonisingly slow speeds – and when your business relies on this connection, it's not only frustrating, but impacts on your ability to do business.

'Most businesses want to embrace digital technology to compete and enhance their productivity, but to do this they need a decent connection and good quality service.'