Scottish businesses enter 2026 with steady confidence and a strong focus on sustainability

Scottish businesses enter 2026 with steady confidence and a strong focus on sustainability

Nearly nine in 10 (87%) private business owners in Scotland are confident about growth in 2026, according to KPMG’s annual Private Enterprise Barometer, in line with the UK average. The annual survey captured the perspectives of 1,500 privately owned businesses, including 119 in Scotland, from across various industries including professional…

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KPMG REACTION: Scottish Budget

Sandra Gilchrist, Head of Tax for Scotland at KPMG UK, said: “Raising the lower tax rate thresholds will be welcomed by some employees. However, others may be disappointed that the high marginal rate for those earning between around £44,000 and £50,000 remains, despite pre-Budget rumours the Finance Secretary might address…

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Tech investment and market expansion fuel high levels of confidence as Scotland’s private firms target growth in H2

The vast majority of private firms in Scotland (94%) feel confident about their growth prospects, according to new KPMG mid-year pulse data Regional business leaders continue to prioritise investment in new technologies, with 64% identifying it as a key investment area Inflation is a top concern for 45% of respondents,…

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Mid-market private equity interest in Scotland dips in the first half of 2025

The volume of mid-market private equity investment in Scotland fell by 14%. Amongst 24 investments in Scotland, bolt-ons remain the most popular deal type. Total UK private equity deal volumes dropped in H1 2025 to their lowest levels since the second half of 2020 The second quarter saw reduced activity…

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iLivestock selected to represent Scotland in the search for the best UK tech trailblazer

iLivestock has fended off competition from dozens of local tech startups to be crowned Scotland Tech Innovator as part of KPMG’s search for the UK’s most exciting tech businesses. The Rosyth-based firm, which has created an all-in-one management platform for sheep and cattle farmers, was one of hundreds of applications…

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Scottish GDP growth could exceed UK average in 2026 – KPMG

Scotland’s GDP growth could hit 1.2% next year, ahead of the 1.1% forecasted for the UK. Recent trade deals could benefit Scottish exporters, helping to fuel economic growth. Scotland’s economic growth will trail the UK this year, amid weak business and consumer confidence and pressure on Scottish government spending. Wednesday…

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