Equipment Finance News Training and development in digital skills a priority for SMEs in 2020 Published: 29th January 2020 Share The majority of leaders of small and medium enterprises in the UK aim to improve their digital skills as part of development plans for 2020, new research shows. Of the business leaders with plans for training, 38% said wanted to improve their knowledge of software, the internet and social media. In the retail sector, this grew to 51% as the high street battles the impact of growing internet sales. With a clearer position on the UK’s future in Europe, 25% are looking for professional guidance on the impact of Brexit. Among younger business leaders, environmental issues are a key concern for 29%, compared to a national average of 15%. Gavin Wraith-Carter (pictured), managing director of Hitachi Capital Business Finance, said: “Standing still in a business world as competitive as today for most leaders is simply not an option. Businesses will all have specific challenges to address as the market shifts and technology evolves. The best way of staying a step ahead of competitors is to invest in skills across the business.” Hitachi Capital Business Finance, a division of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC, provides business asset finance to SMEs and bigger corporations across the UK and has an asset portfolio of more than £1 billion. Finance Connect Finance Connect brings you news and updates about UK and European auto, equipment and asset finance providers. Sign up to our newsletter Featured Stories Corporate Member NewsParagon Bank funds solar project for Scottish property group NewsALBIS Leasing maintains new business growth in first nine months of 2026 NewsAerCap completes 204 leasing, purchase and sale transactions in Q3 2026 Equipment Finance
