Overview

Artificial intelligence is steadily moving from experimentation to execution, reshaping how organisations operate, innovate, and compete. Yet, while adoption is widespread, maturity levels remain uneven. 

Most companies are still in the early or intermediate stages of implementation, focusing on pilot projects and productivity gains rather than enterprise-wide transformation.

This report explores the current state of AI adoption in EU companies and the factors influencing its success. The findings reveal a landscape defined by both progress and persistent challenges: organisations are investing in AI to enhance efficiency, but many still struggle with foundational issues such as data quality, governance, and policy development. 

Despite these hurdles, optimism remains high - many leaders are already realising tangible returns and expect even stronger value creation in the near future.

As AI becomes more deeply integrated into critical functions such as cybersecurity and risk management, it is clear that the technology’s role is expanding beyond automation. It is emerging as a strategic enabler - driving not only operational improvements but also resilience, innovation, and competitive differentiation.

Through these insights, we aim to capture where Europe’s business leaders are today on their AI journey, and where their focus must shift next to create resilient, innovative, and trusted technology organisations ready for the future.