More than two fifths of small businesses are considering closing their current pension scheme in favour of opening a personal account in 2012.

According to the Association of Consulting Actuaries (ACA), 59% of employers and 86% of small businesses will review the best option for them in 2012.

Approximately 90% of pension schemes in the UK are operated by small businesses and have fewer than 100 members. And the survey finds only 7% expect they can cover the cost of the pensions changes by increasing prices to customers, compared with 26% in 2007.

Keith Barton, chairman of the ACA, said: "The message is clear - good schemes are falling apart because of these well-intentioned reforms. This will mean an increasing number of employees currently in good schemes, and those joining from 2012, are set to receive pensions that fall far short of their needs."

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