Written by new-contact on Jun 30, 2015. Posted in On Location

Exports from UK creative and film industries increase 34%

Global exports from the UK’s creative industries rose by 34% between 2009 and 2013, according to new government figures. Television dramas like the BBC’s Sherlock and The Musketeers have been major international hits.

Jobs in the UK’s creative industries increased by 5.5% between 2013 and 2014 and the number of people working in the sector has increased by 16% since 2011.

“These latest figures demonstrate how the UK’s creative industries continue to be one of our great success stories,” said Culture Secretary John Whittingdale.

“It’s a fantastic sector which now accounts for more than 1.8 million jobs in the UK and employment in this area is increasing at twice the rate of the wider economy.

“Our films, music and other artists are celebrated around the world and this government is determined to ensure our creative industries continue to grow.”

The UK’s TV tax credit was launched in 2013 and has had a major impact on keeping high-end British television filming in the UK, while also increasing the UK’s international TV appeal.

Regional UK filming locations like Bristol, South Wales and Yorkshire have seen a big increase in British production. Shows that would have had to pursue better filming incentives elsewhere in Europe before 2013 are now able to showcase UK locations.

The US is still the biggest international market for UK television productions. Earlier this year the UK’s independent producers’ trade association Pact launched a US branch for the first time.

In 2013/14, sales of UK exports to the US market increased by 10% to more than GBP 520 million.

(Images: BBC)