UK businesses show resilience in response to global uncertainty
UK businesses are showing resilience in response to global uncertainty, with 84% saying they are confident in their ability to withstand economic shocks, according to new findings from the Lloyds Business Barometer
Reflecting conditions during the survey period 30 April – 18 May 2026, more than half (57%) of businesses say they have been impacted by recent global uncertainty, with rising costs (45%) and supply chain disruption (37%) cited most frequently as consequences. Despite this, a further 57% of firms said they still expect to grow this year, while 30% expect trading levels to remain the same.
The Business Barometer survey is made up of 1,200 UK firms from across all regions and sectors.
Adapting to preserve growth
The latest research revealed that businesses are adapting in response to global uncertainty. It found that nearly six in 10 (59%) firms are actively adjusting their strategy in response to global economic conditions and uncertainty.
Among those taking action, more than half (51%) have introduced cost-saving measures, while more than a third (35%) have increased their inventory levels, with the same proportion (35%) having locked in commodity, raw material or input prices to mitigate economic shocks linked to recent market volatility.
Amanda Murphy, CEO for Lloyds Business and Commercial Banking said: “What we’re seeing from businesses is not just resilience, but decisive action in the face of ongoing uncertainty.
“Across sectors like manufacturing, logistics and food production, firms are taking practical steps to protect their operations – increasing inventory and locking in costs where they can.
“Many also recognise that global supply chain challenges and energy market volatility are structural issues, not temporary blips. In response, businesses are managing costs, securing supply and building greater resilience into their operating models.
“That puts greater focus on working capital and funding, but it also reflects a confidence. Firms are backing their ability to navigate uncertainty and continue to grow.”
Financial strategies
Businesses are looking to financial strategies to help manage volatility. Three-quarters of companies (75%) say they have the right financial tools and support to mitigate economic shocks caused by global volatility.
Among those who say they have the appropriate support, including strategies such as cashflow forecasting (46%), working capital facilities or overdrafts (30%) and interest rate hedging (19%).