**Half of Firms Trapped by Unnecessary Software Subscriptions, Study Reveals**
In a troubling development for businesses across Europe, a recent study has found that half of all firms are ensnared by unnecessary software subscriptions. This trend is significantly hindering digital innovation as companies grapple with escalating IT costs. The findings were disclosed by Forscope, a software management and resale provider, during the Infoshare 2026 technology conference held in Gdańsk, Poland.
The research, which surveyed over 300 participants, underscores a growing tension between the urgent need for digital innovation and the financial constraints imposed by rising software and cloud service expenses. According to the study, 56 percent of respondents expressed deep concern regarding the consistent price increases associated with the software products they rely on daily.
Despite these financial pressures, the ambition for investment in new technologies remains robust. The study revealed that 52 percent of companies are prioritizing the implementation of artificial intelligence solutions and the development of bespoke applications for the year 2026. However, to secure funding for these innovative projects, many organizations are compelled to make significant cuts to their standard IT infrastructure, including operating systems and office suites.
The survey identified IT cost optimization as a critical priority for 33 percent of participants, reflecting a widespread recognition of the need to manage and reduce expenses in the face of rising software costs. The findings suggest that the market has reached a saturation point concerning its tolerance for the relentless price hikes associated with subscription-based cloud models.
In response to these challenges, an interesting trend has emerged: 8 percent of companies are opting for permanent licenses as a means of shielding themselves from the pressures of subscription costs. This shift allows businesses to avoid the perpetual cycles of subscription fees that can accumulate over time.
Additionally, many enterprises are conducting thorough software audits to identify applications that have been purchased but are not being fully utilized. Instead of allowing these licenses to remain dormant and tie up valuable capital, companies are increasingly choosing to resell inactive software. This strategy enables businesses to convert forgotten assets into liquidity, providing immediate funds that can be redirected to finance new investment initiatives.
The overall consensus from the Infoshare conference indicates that the leaders of digital transformation in 2026 will be those who successfully manage their complex license portfolios. The combination of cloud services with permanent licenses is emerging as a particularly effective strategy for freeing up capital, allowing firms to invest in their future rather than remaining trapped in the cycle of continuous subscription expenses.
As businesses navigate this landscape, the findings from Forscope's study highlight the pressing need for organizations to reassess their software subscriptions and explore alternative licensing models. The ability to optimize IT costs while pursuing innovation will be crucial for firms aiming to thrive in an increasingly competitive digital economy.