IT spending set for 2013 boost

Gartner figures predict 2.5 per cent bounce back next year despite continued decline in government spending

Global enterprise IT spending is forecast to enjoy a 2.5 per cent spike in 2013, despite the government sector feeling the pinch.

Gartner estimates that total spend next year will reach almost $2.68tn (£1.69tn), up from $2.6tn in 2012. The analyst reports that this year has been a tough one, but that an improved third-quarter performance points to a better outlook for next year.

The largest vertical by IT spend next year is expected to be the manufacturing and natural resources space, where tech outlay is projected to rise 2.3 per cent to $467bn. The banking and comms and media industries will also be big hitters, with forecast growth levels of 3.5 and three per cent respectively, taking total spend to $460bn and $426bn.

Transport and insurance are forecast to be the two fastest growing sectors, with 2013 spending expected to increase by more than four per cent in each. Annual tech investment is set to grow to $126bn and $187bn, respectively.

The government sector is expected to post an IT spending decrease of two per cent this year, and a further decline – albeit more marginal – is forecast for 2013. Spending is expected to drop from $447bn to $445bn.

Kenneth Brant, research director at Gartner, said: "Most organisations have already significantly cut discretionary IT spending growth over the past several years and, barring a global economic catastrophe and significant contraction of operations, they have little room to reduce IT spending further over the long run."