With 58% of employers in the South West confident about recruiting candidates with the right qualifications, the region stands ahead of the national average of 49%. This achievement signals a robust commitment to workforce development and the successful implementation of local skills initiatives, particularly in sectors such as aerospace and the creative industries. The higher level of recruitment confidence in the South West serves as a testament to the region’s forward-thinking approach and readiness to embrace future opportunities, laying a solid foundation for ongoing economic growth across Britain.
Strong confidence defines the local workforce
Business confidence in the South West is at an impressive 87%, matching the national average, and 39% of leaders describe themselves as “very confident”, closely aligning with the UK figure of 40%. More notably, recruitment confidence in the region stands out at 58%, surpassing the national average of 49% and marking the highest level across the UK. These figures highlight the South West’s strong leadership and its commitment to building a capable and qualified workforce, reinforcing the region’s position as a hub for opportunity and growth.
Balancing innovation and security
Organisations in the South West are demonstrating a clear commitment to innovation, with 38% prioritising technology investment and 35% focusing on AI initiatives, closely aligning with the national averages of 39% and 38% respectively. This focus positions the region to capitalise on emerging opportunities while maintaining a solid competitive stance across the UK. At the same time, 67% of South West leaders acknowledge the growing challenge of cyber risk, just below the national figure of 70%, and 47% report heightened awareness of other risks, compared to 48% nationally. This balanced approach to embracing technological progress and maintaining vigilance on risk ensures that the South West remains well placed for sustainable success in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Setting the standard for workforce adaptability
In the South West, a remarkable 42% of organisations are prioritising reskilling, outpacing the national average of 38%. This dedication is reflected in the region’s strong workforce confidence, which stands as a defining strength and positions the South West at the forefront of adaptability and future growth. Business leaders and policymakers in the region are driving a culture where investment in people is central to ongoing success, ensuring that teams are ready to meet new challenges and seize emerging opportunities. This strategic focus not only supports individual development but also reinforces the South West’s reputation as a destination for innovation and progress, setting a benchmark for workforce resilience across Britain.
Use these insights as your starting point, join the conversation and help ensure the region’s next chapter is defined by growth and possibility – read the full report – KPMG Private Enterprise Barometer 2026.
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