More than half of small business owners think they will use robots by 2035

Nearly half believe robots will stack shelves and create products – but one futurist has said there are some jobs robots can’t replace.

More than half of small business owners believe they will be using ROBOTS by 2035.

A study of 500 SME owners found that four out of ten think artificial intelligence will be used to tidy up the workplace, perform dangerous tasks, and for other reasons. by entertainment.

Up to 43% believe robots will stack shelves and create products, and another 41% believe they will completely replace customer service.

With energy prices on the rise, 41% also think they will depend on renewable sources to power this technological advancement.

However, three-quarters say it’s hard to imagine what a workplace will look like in 13 years’ time, as it’s likely to be very different than it is today.

Fflur Lawton, head of public affairs at Smart Energy GB, which commissioned the research, said: “The way businesses operate on a daily basis is changing, and the advancement in robotics and AI is An exciting prospect for many.

“But upgrading our energy system is key to integrating more renewables and achieving these capabilities.

“Installing a smart meter at your property is a step in the right direction for the UK and will help your business control its energy use.”

Futurist Ian Pearson claims people may be overestimating the importance of flexible working and underestimating the importance of robotics and AI when it comes to the future of work.

And he says certain industries are more likely to be impacted by robotics and AI than others.

“A small accounting firm can be run by AI and there’s no reason why, in theory, we can’t have a robotic hairdresser that can get the perfect cut with magic,” said Ian Pearson. measuring and laser beams.

“But the human touch and emotional side that comes with certain jobs is an important part of their appeal, as these are jobs that are part of the ‘career economy’. squirrel “.

“A lot of people enjoy the experience of being in contact with people and the emotional side that comes with it – that’s irreplaceable.

“When it comes to hairdressers, machines can cut your hair — lasers to make sure each section of your hair is cut perfectly — but robots can’t replicate the conversations that come with it.

“The same goes for the care sector, like nurses and doctors, and the emotional support they provide.”

The study also found that nearly eight out of ten respondents think working from home will be the norm by 2035.

Although male leaders tend to favor the shift to remote working (52%) than women (38%).

Business owners are expecting customers to increasingly want goods with more ethical origins and more environmentally friendly practices, leading to nearly a third choosing to reduce the amount of plastic in their products and install smart meters bright.

But more than half (52%) also predict they will need to cut costs to survive, and more than a third want to reduce energy costs and be more environmentally friendly.

And two-thirds agree improving their company’s eco-friendliness will help with profitability, while the same amount say it will make the company a more attractive proposition for investors. private.

So, in turn, businesses are planning to recycle more (36%), switch to hybrid/electric vehicles (33%) and install smart meters (32%).

According to OnePoll research, up to 68% of those planning to install a smartwatch want an accurate reading of their energy usage, and 67% think it’s better for the planet, according to OnePoll research.

Fflur Lawton, from Smart Energy GB, added: “As a country, we are looking for ways to be more environmentally conscious but also better manage our bills and this is no different for other countries. enterprise.

“Installing a smartwatch at work is a small way to do both.”