UK workers want to work for themselves

Half of British workers would leave their job and run their own small business, a survey reveals.

Online payments provider, PayPoint.net found from their survey of over 1,100 UK workers that 50% of office workers would start their own business if it wasn’t for start-up costs and administrative demands.

Online small businesses were the most popular where 34% said they would like to start-up in this area, followed by service and consultancy at 28%.

Traditional services were not so popular with only 7% that said retail and just 2% said construction.

The report also suggested that 64% believe that running their own business would be far more fulfilling than days spent in mundane meetings, and repetitive photocopying and printing.

Michael Norton, managing director of PayPoint.net said:

"Considering the tough economic climate of the past two years, it's fantastic to see such a strong sense of entrepreneurialism in the UK. What is more sobering is the fact that many would-be entrepreneurs view online payments as an afterthought."

An increase in small business start-ups saw recorded during the first quarter. This increase has taken some analysts by surprise, with many predicting falls as a result of continuing economic uncertainty.

It is hoped that start-up rates will continue to increase as business finance becomes more available, which is hoped to further encourage those with an ambition to set up a company.

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