SMBs Turn to AI for Advice While Trusting Tech Partners

More than half of UK small and medium business owners now consult artificial intelligence tools for operational guidance, while maintaining trust in their established technology partnerships, according to research from Worldpay.

The payments company's study found 53% of SMB owners use AI platforms such as ChatGPT for business advice and problem-solving. 

However, 93% continue to place their confidence in technology partners who support their operations.

The research indicates entrepreneurs aged 25-34 demonstrate higher adoption rates, with almost 60% using AI tools for business guidance. 

Traditional search engines retain relevance, with 47% of business owners relying on them for advice.

Social platforms emerge as business guidance channels

Social media platforms have become significant sources of business information, with 51% of respondents using YouTube for guidance. 

LinkedIn attracts 41% of business owners seeking advice, while 37% turn to Facebook or Instagram for operational insights.

Generational differences shape platform preferences. 

While 31% of UK SMB owners use TikTok for business advice, this figure rises to 60% among entrepreneurs aged 18-24, demonstrating how digital natives approach business guidance differently from older generations.

Despite this digital shift, personal networks remain equally important. 

The research shows 93% of SMB owners continue to rely on family and friends for business guidance, suggesting entrepreneurs build diversified advisory networks rather than replace traditional relationships.

Payment technology adapts to changing business landscape

The findings reflect broader changes in how businesses operate and seek support. Chris Wood, General Manager for SMB International at Worldpay, says modern entrepreneurs must balance multiple guidance sources to navigate operational complexity.

“Running a small business can be complicated. Entrepreneurs today must rely on both their personal networks and invest in the right tools to help their business thrive,” Chris says.

Worldpay has responded to these changing needs by launching Worldpay 360, an integrated business management and payments solution. 

The platform targets retail, hospitality and service sectors through three service tiers: Lite, Standard and Pro.

Integrated solutions address operational demands

The system combines payment processing with business management tools, reflecting the demand for streamlined operations identified in the research. 

Features include inventory management, table management for hospitality businesses, and customisable receipt options.

Merchants can establish operations quickly while accessing management functions through the point-of-sale interface. 

This integration addresses the need for efficient technology solutions among businesses juggling multiple advisory sources and operational demands.

The platform's design acknowledges that modern SMBs require both technological efficiency and flexible guidance options. 

As business owners increasingly combine AI tools, social platforms, and personal networks for advice, their technology solutions must support this multi-channel approach.

The research suggests UK entrepreneurs are developing sophisticated strategies for accessing business guidance. Rather than abandoning traditional advisory relationships, they are expanding their networks to include digital tools and platforms.

This evolution reflects the complexity of modern business operations, where owners must navigate technological change while maintaining the personal relationships that provide emotional support and local knowledge.

Payment providers are adapting their offerings accordingly, creating solutions that support businesses operating across multiple channels and guidance sources. 

The integration of various business functions into single platforms enables entrepreneurs to focus on growth while managing operational complexity.

“While family and friends provide invaluable advice and emotional support, leveraging technology is equally crucial,” Chris says.