Channel leaders brimming with confidence about industry's future, Agilitas study finds

Confidence about future runs high, despite challenges around AI and culture

UK channel leaders are feeling more confident than ever about the future success of the industry, according to new research released today by Agilitas IT Solutions.

The survey of 250 decision-makers at UK-headquartered channel businesses with over £5m in annual turnover found an overall confidence score of 7.9 out of 10 - the highest level in five years.

With optimism running high, channel leaders are focusing their efforts on embracing innovation, enhancing customer experience, and attracting/retaining top talent.

The research reveals widespread belief that AI will positively impact businesses, with 82 per cent of respondents foreseeing benefits from AI.

However, only 74 per cent said they are currently adopting AI into their strategies.

"It is becoming increasingly difficult for channel companies to prioritise efforts with increasing pressures related to emerging technologies, resilient company cultures, sustainability initiatives and the customer experience," said John Hayes-Warren, CEO of Agilitas.

"Despite this, it's promising to see many channel leaders starting to put strategies into action to keep pace with market changes."

The findings exposed a lack of alignment between CEOs and junior staffers on some key issues. While 96 per cent of surveyed CEOs expressed confidence in balancing company culture with new technologies, rating it 7.8/10, only 46 per cent of junior managers shared that optimism.

Similar disconnects emerged around delivering superior customer experience and achieving a positive workplace culture.

"This disconnect can stem from communication gaps, differing perspectives on goals and lack of transparency," the report states, underscoring the need for clear company strategy and relatable values.

Sustainability also looms large, with 77 per cent of companies planning to focus on it over the next year.

However, less than 20 per cent are currently calculating their full carbon footprint across all three emissions scopes.

"Our 2024 channel trends report aims to help businesses identify the biggest gains, what strategies are prioritised, and most importantly, whether enough is being done to prosper," Hayes-Warren added.