UK mid-market deepens sustainability investment

Research by Investec Bank found mid-market companies are increasingly investing in environmental, social, and governance initiatives.

70% of mid-market firms are currently planning, implementing, or have already implemented a sustainability strategy, with 90% of firms planning to sustain or increase their commitment to ESG.

Callum Bell, head of direct lending and executive sustainability sponsor at Investec Bank, said Investec is encouraged by the actions being taken by mid-market companies.

“Collaboration will be key to establish the right financial and strategic solutions to generate sustainable growth.

“At Investec, we are increasingly in dialogue with clients about growing their businesses by identifying opportunities in sustainability and research like this bolsters our ability to offer solutions and products tailored to their evolving needs,” said Bell.

The study added that 40% of businesses with revenues of under £20m said a lack of resources and funding are obstacles to advancing their ESG efforts.

63% of companies agreed that strong ESG performance makes their organisation more attractive to potential partners and 58% agreed that it makes them more attractive to potential investors.

The study surveyed 500 listed, private and private equity backed mid-market companies on their attitudes towards sustainability.