Cradlepoint, a subsidiary of Ericsson, renowned for its Cloud-delivered LTE and 5G wireless network and security solutions, has released its latest ‘State of Connectivity in Europe’ report. This study covers the views from the UK, France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy. The report reveals that a significant majority (98%) of technology decision-makers sampled foresee revenue growth through improved connectivity, with more than a fifth (22%) expecting an increase of up to 29%. This translates to an anticipated average business revenue growth of 19% as a result of enhanced connectivity.
The survey, conducted by Censuswide, indicates that two-thirds (65%) of firms believe revenue growth will partly derive from increased sustainability efforts. However, achieving this requires smarter facilities to enhance operational sustainability, a belief held by 64% of respondents. This is why 42% of organisations are prioritising upgrades to their connectivity infrastructure with cellular technology, enabling them to leverage IoT and AI to meet their sustainability goals and enhance business resilience and efficiency.
Businesses are urged to secure their rapidly expanding attack surface. The drive to adopt new technologies, such as IoT sensors, is exposing firms to greater risks, with IT teams losing oversight of network operations. Notably, 77% of firms are uncertain about the number of IoT devices currently connected and potential future additions. Given that nearly half (45%) of surveyed businesses experienced a network security attack in the past year, with 26% resulting from a compromised IoT device, it is evident that organisations frequently leave significant vulnerabilities in their network infrastructures for criminals to exploit.
5G to enhance the UK’s role as a leading technology nation, though a continuing skills crisis is an impediment. Specifically in the UK, the survey identified 5G as the most critical technology for maintaining the UK’s status as a leading technology nation, as cited by nearly half (47%) of the respondents. This preference is ahead of other prominent technologies like the Metaverse (32%), robotics and automation (30%), 3D printing (29%), and AI (8%).
Nevertheless, firms face obstacles in deploying their cellular networks, with 32% citing a digital skills shortage and 25% pointing to the complexity of change as significant barriers. Furthermore, 68% of firms believe that, despite the UK Wireless Infrastructure Strategy announced last year by the Government, overall investment in wireless connectivity remains insufficient, hindering further advancement. Indeed, 59% believe poor connectivity is impeding students’ ability to develop necessary skills for a modern world, and 62% feel it adversely affects public transport.
James Bristow, SVP EMEA at Cradlepoint, commented: “Although the benefits of cellular networks are becoming more widely recognised, our research clearly indicates that significant challenges remain if businesses are to fully realise their potential. Our data highlights security risks, concerns about complexity, and a skills deficit as major issues for organisations eager to further explore this technology.
“However, by partnering with the right providers who can offer the necessary expertise and skills, businesses can begin to address some of these challenges. Additionally, by selecting cellular networks that are secure, easy to install, and quick to deploy, organisations can safely introduce new technology without increasing their infrastructural risks. Greater collaboration between industry leaders and tech partners could further economic growth and help our nation continue to compete on the global tech stage.”
Survey methodology: ‘The State of Connectivity in Europe’ report is based on Censuswide research involving over 2,500 respondents across the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy. Participants included business owners, C-level executives, or senior managers at companies with more than 250 employees, all of whom were technology decision-makers.
Vertical sectors polled in this report included: Building, Arts & Culture, Education, Finance, Healthcare, HR, IT & Telecoms, Legal, Manufacturing & Utilities, Retail, Catering & Leisure, Travel and Transport, Government, First Responders, Public Transportation, Automotive, Building Management, Supply Chain & Logistics, Maritime, and Agriculture.
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