The popularity of Apple products among consumers is finally spilling over to the corporate world, long the domain of competitor Microsoft, according to a new report.

While Apple has never marketed itself heavily to corporations, the company’s slick UIs have become so ingrained that IT directors have no choice but to get on board, a report from Forrester titled ‘Global Tech Market Outlook for 2012 and 2013’ suggests.

The report estimates that businesses spent US$6 billion on Macs and another US$6 billion on iPads in 2011. For 2012, this is expected to grow to US$9 billion on Macs and US$10 billion on iPads, and by 2013 the figures will rise to US$12 billion on Macs and US$16 billion on iPads.

The iPad in particular is thought to be finding growth across several sectors. Small business owners are equipping themselves because the iPad doubles as a useful device, while large businesses are providing iPads to their out-of-office staff because the device is easier to travel with than a laptop.

That’s not to mention the innovative ways the devices are being used, such as in airlines, restaurants and retail stores to improve customer service outcomes.

Adding to this is the fact that, as the New York Times noted late last year, Apple’s former CEO Steve Jobs wasn’t fond of selling to corporations, while his successor Tim Cook is much more business-friendly.

Apple’s share price hit an all-time high of US$427.75 yesterday; the business market is the last bastion of its competitors, and they will certainly be wondering just what it will take to keep the high-flying company out.