Office workers across the United Kingdom could soon reclaim nearly half of their standard working day, thanks to the accelerating integration of artificial intelligence. This is the striking conclusion of new data released by Salesforce, based on a commissioned study from IDC.
The Productivity Promise of AI
The findings indicate that AI tools are moving beyond simple automation of repetitive tasks and are beginning to fundamentally reshape how humans work. On average, UK employees estimate that AI saves them a substantial 48 per cent of their day, a figure that surpasses the global average of 41 per cent.
Zahra Bahrololoumi, chief executive of Salesforce UK and Ireland, explained to City AM that success depends on more than just implementing the technology. “Businesses can grow and return to productivity at scale with digital labour, but returns won’t come from just tacking on AI,” she stated. She emphasised that meaningful results hinge on combining trusted data with targeted upskilling for employees.
“With those elements in place, the UK’s £159 billion AI investment could deliver measurable outcomes. We’re talking higher customer satisfaction, lower costs, and real time back to workers,” Bahrololoumi claims.
Investment and the Rise of AI Agents
To support this vision, Salesforce is committing $6bn to the UK through 2030. This investment will expand research and development teams, grow its London AI Centre, and back startups focused on enterprise AI workflows. The broader ambition is to establish the UK as a world-leading hub for AI innovation and digital labour.
The study notes that UK offices are increasingly blending traditional robotic process automation (RPA) with generative AI and modern AI agents. These tools are seeing significant deployment in sectors such as retail financial services and customer support. In practical terms, AI can manage debt resolution, offer financial advice, and process complaints rapidly, freeing human staff to concentrate on higher-value, complex work.
Bahrololoumi argues that AI should be viewed as “labour, not just software.” She highlights that agentic AI—systems capable of autonomous decisions—demands robust governance, continuous evaluation, and crucial human oversight. “If AI is used right, it can transform work from a grind into something smarter. But used poorly, it’s just a shiny replacement for human labour that doesn’t deliver real value,” she warned.
Navigating Risks and Workforce Transformation
Despite the clear potential, the rollout of AI across British workplaces carries notable risks. Industry surveys reveal that a quarter of firms using AI still lack basic controls to safeguard customers and ensure regulatory compliance.
Furthermore, the shift presents challenges for the workforce. Employees in routine or junior roles may feel increased pressure as machines assume repetitive duties, elevating the premium on critical thinking and decision-making skills. This trend is influencing career choices, with more young people considering skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, seen as less vulnerable to automation.
The report underscores the necessity for companies to invest in comprehensive training. Employees need to learn not only how to operate AI tools but also how to challenge their outputs, verify information, and maintain effective oversight. “The real test for leaders,” Bahrololoumi contends, “is whether they can think bigger – using AI not just to redesign roles, but to help every employee contribute at a higher level.”
Ultimately, while the prospect of regaining half a workday is highly appealing, turning it into reality requires a smart strategy, strong governance, and a workforce prepared to collaborate effectively with its digital colleagues.
