Poor internet coverage is affecting businesses

A new report of 1,500 small UK businesses released today reveals that 57% say poor quality internet access adversely affects the ability to run their businesses.

The survey released by Freelancer.co.uk, puts small businesses at odds with culture secretary Jeremy Hunt, who reiterated today in a speech at the Google Campus building that broadband speed is more important than coverage.

Yet the small business survey found that 65% of UK small businesses believe that there is still a rural urban internet divide, with many businesses in rural areas unable to take advantage of new business opportunities the internet brings.

The survey found that 65% of small businesses are worried that if the Government continues to put speed over coverage many businesses in rural areas will suffer. They believe that the government isn’t interested in bridging this gap.

The survey showed that businesses in urban areas, such as the South East were just as worried as those in rural areas about the lack of consistent coverage across the country.

This survey comes as the internet and ecommerce is playing an ever important role in regenerating the economy, contributing more than £34.9bn in the first six months of the year. Yet businesses in rural areas are unable to take advantage of this growth.

Matt Barrie, CEO of Freelancer.co.uk, believes it is crucial that coverage is consistent across the whole of the UK to support economic development. “Reliable and robust internet access is essential for all UK businesses to take advantage of the new opportunities the internet provides” he said.

Did you find this article useful?