Almost all businesses in the UK have encountered a skills shortage in their workplace, but most will be investing in training to counter the problem, according to a major new survey.

The 2014 Workforce Survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) reveals that 92% of UK firms have experienced a skills shortage in at least one key area of the business.

Problem areas identified in the report included leadership and management, planning and organisation, languages, computer literacy and creativity.

Yet, according to the report, four in five organisations covered in the survey claimed to be spending money to solve the problem. Some 80% will invest in training, with about half of this number spending more than £500 per employee.

Nora Senior, president of the BCC, said: “Businesses recognise that investing in training can drive higher productivity and increased profits.

“In addition to specialised training, however, our findings make it clear that investment in leadership and management skills are crucial to enhance strategic thinking, foster innovation and motivate a firm’s employees.”

The biggest barriers to staff development cited by the BCC report included cost, staff availability and a lack of suitable courses.

Senior added: “Accredited Chambers of Commerce provide objective advice to employers on appropriate local training providers, and help negotiate lower costs through group purchasing. Many also offer direct, business-to-business training themselves.”