Tablets are poised for a major adoption curve within businesses in Europe, says a new report from IDC.

The firm said that tablet purchases within businesses in the EMEA region represent less than 10 percent today, but the opportunity for growth and interest from enterprises is growing exponentially following the success of the iPad. Capabilities such as the touch screen, portability and a number of business application solutions that address specific vertical markets are all factors that are motivating the adoption of tablets in the enterprise.

IDC conducted a study across businesses in Western Europe and found that more than 48 percent of businesses have either already studied and are planning to introduce tablets or have purchased a few. Many vertical businesses indicated an interest in purchasing tablets in 2012. Sectors such as transport and storage, utilities and distribution are showing strong interest.

More than 22 percent of businesses believe that today's generation of tablets defined by Apple's iPad are more suitable to their needs compared to their present equipment, such as traditional tablet devices or vertical application devices.

The study also found that tablets are viewed as very well suited for several key vertical applications such as equipment maintenance, meter reading, proof of service, asset and inventory management, telematics and direct store delivery.