Member Update
HIE Business Panel Survey
23 February 2026 • Sarah Medcraf
The findings of the latest Highands and Island Enterprise (HIE) Busienss Panel Survey (undertaken in November 2025) have been published.
Click here to view the full report.
This was the 29th survey commissioned by HIE since 2014, and the 11th in collaboration with South of Scotland Enterprise. Together, the findings provide a unique and robust evidence base for Scotland’s rural economy.
As well as tracking business confidence, performance and growth aspirations, the survey explored:
- Current challenges and how these are impacting on business operations and activities.
- The nature and impact of both cost increases and financial concerns.
- Workforce and recruitment challenges, including staff and skills gaps.
Findings for the SOSE region are available from the SOSE website.