Aim of this survey
The Business enterprise research and development (BERD) survey is a statutory survey. It collects information about employment and expenditure on research and development (R&D) performed by businesses in the UK, for both civil and defence purposes. The data collected contribute to estimates of the resources devoted to R&D in the UK and allows for international comparisons.
What you need to know
To complete the survey, you will need the following information:
- expenditure on in-house R&D (this is R&D carried out within this business either for the business itself or for a third party).
- funding received for R&D
- purchase of R&D carried out outside this business
- the number of employees working on in-house R&D
- a breakdown of employment into scientists & engineers, technicians and other supporting staff
All information you provide is strictly confidential.
You still need to complete this survey even if it does not seem relevant, you will only need to complete a limited selection of questions.
It is just as important for us to know if you did not perform or purchase any R&D during the reporting period, to ensure we accurately measure R&D in the UK. All returns are important as they help us produce better statistics.
Survey information
Selection criteria: UK trading and profit-making businesses that are registered for VAT and/or PAYE
Population: approximately: 2.5 million
Sample: approximately: 19,000
Frequency: annually
Dispatch date: 30 to 31 January 2025
Return-by date: 20 March 2025
Dispatch and return-by dates are a guide. They are subject to change due to national holidays and weekends.
Why you were selected
Your business has been selected from a register of businesses in the UK that have been identified as performing or intending to perform research and development (R&D). Your response ensures we accurately measure R&D in the UK.
The BERD survey is conducted under the provisions of the Statistics of Trade Act 1947. Once selected, your business is legally obliged to comply. You cannot appeal your selection.
How to complete this survey
Your letter explains how to complete this survey online. Please use your unique enrolment code to report your information.
Reminders are issued automatically, so you may receive one if you submit data just before or after the return date.
If you need help
If your question is not answered above, you may be able to find the answer on the About ONS business surveys page.
You can call us on 0300 1234 931. Please enter the three-digit survey ID 002.
Er mwyn gwneud cais am ffurflen Gymraeg (to speak to someone in Welsh): 0300 1234 921.