Scotland tops UK long hours league table

Aug 18 2008

Scots entrepreneurs work an average of 52 hours a week

ENTREPRENEURS in Scotland work more than 50 hours a week, according to new research.

The latest figure of 52 hours - an increase of almost four hours a week on 2007 - means Scotland now tops the UK's long hours league.

The work life balance survey by Bank of Scotland Business Banking also found almost a quarter of Scots entrepreneurs are unlikely to take a full week's holiday this year.

Peter Wood, head of strategy and products at Bank of Scotland Business Banking, said: "Owning and running a small business is an extremely time-consuming but ultimately very rewarding experience.

"Given that the stakes are so high, it comes as no surprise that Britain's entrepreneurs are burning the midnight oil to try and make a success of their business.

"Unfortunately, however, there is a clear downside to the pursuit of success for some small business owners with increased stress levels.
"We know, from our own experience of working with small businesses, that one of the biggest problems they face is the amount of time spent dealing with administration and regulation.

"If we can create an environment for small business in Britain that helps SMEs work smarter, by allowing them to get on with the job of running their business, then we will continue to see SMEs grow and prosper."