Business Insights and Conditions in Scotland (wave 165): 9 October 2026
Business Insights and Conditions Survey (BICS) weighted Scotland data up to survey period 21 September to 4 October 2026 (Wave 165). The BICS provides statistics on how current conditions are affecting businesses in Scotland, including impact on financial performance, workforce, trade and resilience.
Artificial Intelligence
In the period 21 September to 4 October 2026 (Wave 165), businesses were asked if they use any Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
Figure 3: In September 2026, 36.9% of businesses were using some form of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, with the Information & Communication sector having the highest share (75.5%).
Estimated share of businesses currently using some form of Artificial Intelligence technology. Businesses not permanently stopped trading, with 10+ employees and a presence in Scotland. Wave 165 (21 September to 4 October 2026).
Source: BICS weighted Scotland estimates - data to Wave 165 from the Scottish Government. For Figure 3 data see table ‘CurrentAIUsed’.
Large businesses (250 or more employees) were more likely to be using some form of AI technology than small to medium-sized businesses (10 to 249 employees). An estimated 51.6% of large businesses were using some form of AI, compared to 35.3% of small to medium-sized businesses.
Contact
For enquiries about this publication please contact:
Marina Curran
Business & Innovation Statistics
Office of the Chief Economic Adviser
email: industrystatistics@gov.scot
For general enquiries about Scottish Government statistics please contact:
Office of the Chief Statistician
email: statistics.enquiries@gov.scot