Surge in business confidence ahead of budget while public optimism collapses

by London-TV in Business

UK business owners are feeling “hopeful” about the economic outlook ahead of the budget statement on
the 26th
of November, marking a stark contrast to the wider public mood, according to a new study from market research agency Research Clever.

A nationally representative survey of 2,113 adults
found that 52% of medium-sized business owners (50–249 employees) and 49% of large business owners (250+ employees) feel optimistic
about the UK economy. This compares with around 2 in 10 (19%) of the general public.
The findings indicate a widening “optimism gap” between employers and households as the UK endures the cost-of-living crisis.

Businesses report a strong year and confidence heading into 2026

Medium-sized business owners have seen a particularly sharp rebound:

89% say they are financially better off than 12 months ago

73% expect their finances to improve further in 2026 (nearly three times the national average of 25%)

Only 58% have reduced spending this year, compared with 71% of the public

Business owners more likely to support NHS dedicated tax rise

Support for targeted tax rises to shore up public services is also higher among business owners than among the general population. A
1p income tax rise to fund the NHS is backed by 68% of small, 62% of medium-sized, and 69% of large business owners, versus 49% of the public.

A growing confidence divide

While business owners are entering the Budget period on stronger footing, the public remains financially strained:

Just 19% of adults feel positive about the economy

Only a quarter (25%) expect their finances to improve next year

Spending cutbacks remain widespread across households

This contrast points to a developing divide in financial resilience across the UK, one that could shape both economic policy and consumer
demand in early 2026.

Commenting on the findings, Ross Cafferkey, CEO and founder of Research Clever, said: “These figures show a business community starting
to regain momentum while many households remain stuck in survival mode. Medium-sized firms, in particular, are emerging from a tough period with renewed confidence and a willingness to invest, whereas public optimism has barely lifted. It’s a clear signal
to policymakers: confidence is returning at the commercial level, but unless the Budget addresses persistent pressure on households, the recovery won’t feel evenly shared.