The survey found that 15 per cent of those asked are listed on AIM and the same proportion plan to do so as part of their growth strategy.

Furthermore, 90 per cent of SMEs listed on AIM have seen a positive impact on their business, while only a minor one per cent believe the listing has had a negative impact.  

However, 64 per cent of polled companies not currently listed on AIM have no plans to do so, while almost a quarter are indifferent to the potential benefits.

Patrick Haines, regional head of advice at Close Brothers Asset Management, said: “British SMEs are showing a healthy appetite for growth and floating on AIM can play a crucial part in this, as it can provide a good platform to raise capital for investment.

“Yet with hunger for expansion comes the need to plan for changes. As a business grows its monetary needs often alter, as do the personal finance needs of the business owner.

Haines stressed that in preparation for an AIM listing, business owners should look carefully at an increase in capital gains on any company shares and tax liabilities. 

The research also found that experiences and attitudes toward AIM vary by region and sector. Companies in the North East are most likely to be listed on AIM, with almost 30 per cent, while engineering is the sector most likely to figure on the same platform.

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