Over half of French SMID-cap companies’ directors have yet to define a specific strategy for adopting artificial intelligence. Nevertheless, they recognise the urgent need to familiarise themselves with this new technology. Here, the experts at AURIS Finance, a consultancy firm specialising in mergers and acquisitions, share their analysis.
The study was conducted by Bpifrance among 1,200 business leaders and SMEs. When asked about their relationship with artificial intelligence (AI), the directors were unanimous in saying that adopting AI is a matter of survival for their companies. Indeed, 58% of those who responded to the survey considered AI to be important, or even very important, for their company’s survival over the next three to five years. For the vast majority of business leaders surveyed (94%), AI is primarily a means of optimising existing processes. Meanwhile, 54% of those polled believe that AI is a tool for business development, such as improving customer knowledge, gaining market share, accessing new markets and increasing sales.
Low take-up rate
Although the importance of this tool is widely recognised, managers are slow to translate their convictions into tangible action. According to a study by Bpifrance, only a minority of managers have defined an AI strategy. Specifically, 26% use generative AI, 16% use non-generative AI, and just 10% use both. Even worse, 43% of SMEs do not analyse their data to inform business decisions. ‘Only a minority of business leaders are laying the first building block for efficient AI’, notes Bpifrance. The public investment bank states that a company which carries out data analysis to manage its business is 2.5 times more likely to use AI.
Lack of expertise
Of the business leaders questioned, more than half (57%) say they have not defined an AI strategy. There are a number of reasons for this, including high costs and the risk of data confidentiality breaches. Companies specialising in technology and information and communication technologies (ICT), as well as those in finance and insurance, are well advanced in their approach to AI. Conversely, companies specialising in construction and transport are lagging behind.
Technological assets
Business leaders are now fully aware of the ongoing revolution. Adopting artificial intelligence optimises processes, reduces risks and personalises offerings. However, AI’s role now extends far beyond the management of activities; it is also considered a company asset that can be valued at the time of sale. Companies that integrate AI into their overall strategy are better positioned to attract investors and successfully raise capital. Those that adopt AI can expect to see their valuation increase by between 20% and 50%, compared with those that do not.
Our experts at your service
In the current climate, it is essential to consider artificial intelligence before any sale or fundraising. Having a clearly established strategy is a valuable asset when it comes to company valuation. At AURIS Finance, our experts specialise by sector. We support you throughout your sale, acquisition or fundraising operation.
