New research from Intuit QuickBooks uncovers a potential surge in entrepreneurial activity across the UK, marking 2025 as a pivotal year for self-employment growth. The report, which surveys 3,000 adults in the UK, highlights a renewed entrepreneurial spirit, with over half (52%) of respondents considering launching a business in the next year.
With self-employment numbers in decline since 2020 (down from 5 million in 2020 to 4.3 million in 2024), this report signals a potential turning point suggesting UK consumers are ready to redefine entrepreneurship – embracing side hustles, leveraging digital tools and seeking financial independence to navigate today’s economic challenges.
Rob Burlison, Director of International Corporate Affairs at Intuit QuickBooks, said: “The findings highlight an exciting shift in the UK entrepreneurial landscape, with a renewed focus on self-employment and side hustles. Starting a business doesn’t have to be complicated or costly, people just need the confidence”