Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for 2024. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.
How 5G powers business growth
In 2025, reliable, secure, and scalable connectivity will define UK business success.
2025 holds great promise for UK businesses, especially those embracing the power of 5G.
As we reflect on the technological advancements of 2024, it’s clear that businesses who adopt and invest in the right connectivity infrastructure will be poised for sustained growth and long-term success.
The connectivity outlook report details the key trends shaping connectivity in 2025, and the actions businesses should take to stay ahead of the competition.
If you’re looking to scale up, here’s where your focus should be:
In 2025, reliable, secure, and scalable connectivity will define business success. Our research shows that small and medium-sized businesses (typically those with 1-49 employees for small and 50-249 employees for medium-sized) need the right network to unlock their potential.
01
A reliable network to ensure smooth operations and avoid costly downtime.
02
Security to protect against increasing cybersecurity risks as more devices and data are shared.
03
Opportunities for growth via the speed and flexibility that 5G offers, enabling faster operations and better hybrid work models.
What’s the next step for SMEs?
Reliable network, reliable business
In a world where businesses are becoming increasingly digital, connectivity is everything. Poor network performance can lead to operational disruptions, loss of productivity, and even reputational damage.
According to our research, 86% of SMEs have experienced negative impacts on their operations due to poor connectivity in the last 12 months. Businesses in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and IT are particularly affected by network unreliability.
What you can do for your business:
- Assess your needs - Understand what drives your operations, from remote work to real-time data sharing.
- Verify performance - Conduct speed tests and review network coverage before choosing a provider.
- Future proof - Partner with a provider that supports both current operations and future innovation goals.
Secure connectivity, confident business
As businesses adopt more technology, cybersecurity risks become more significant. With the rapid growth of 5G networks and more devices being connected, businesses must prioritise secure, high-capacity networks.
Our research found that 62% of organisations are currently facing skills shortages, which increases the likelihood of security breaches.
What you can do for your business:
Ensure end-to-end protection by adopting advanced tools and systems for vulnerability testing and threat detection.
Look for a provider that offers comprehensive security solutions, such as Three Mobile Protect, which safeguards devices and data across your business.
5G: driving growth in 2025
With 5G, businesses can enhance operational efficiency, support hybrid work models, and drive revenue growth.
5G isn’t just about faster speeds; it’s about enabling businesses to work smarter. The ability to share data in real-time, collaborate across locations, and access high-speed cloud solutions is critical for staying competitive in 2025.
What you can do for your business:
Align technology investments with specific growth goals, whether it’s streamlining operations or enabling hybrid work.
Access the most reliable 5G for smarter decision making, operational efficiency, and improved customer experiences.
Is your business ready for 5G?
As businesses continue to digitise, 5G will unlock significant business opportunities and be the backbone of future success. But it’s crucial to choose the right connectivity partner to ensure these benefits are realised.
Why Three Business?
Three Business is trusted by over 900k business customers across the UK. Our tailored mobile connectivity plans, backed by The UK’s Fastest 5G Network[1], offer our customers the reliability, scalability, and security they need to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Trusted by over 900k business customers
Manufacturing
100+ connections
Construction
300+ connections
Healthcare
80+ connections
Security
60+ connections
Waste Management
300+ connections
Shipping & Offshore
330+ connections
Education
550+ connections
Manufacturing
75+ connections
Aviation
275+ connections
Transportation
250+ connections
Ready to grow your business?
Explore our tailored solutions and see how Three Business can help get your business ahead.
Subscribe to the Three Business newsletter
Enter your email to sign up for valuable insights on connectivity, plus actionable tips on growing your business.
Customer success stories
Three Business supports a diverse range of businesses across the UK.
Discover what our customers say about us, and read the latest insights and inspiration from industry thought leaders.
Read our customer stories to get insights for businesses like yours.