skip to main content

Britain’s Creative Industries Break the £100 Billion Barrier

New statistics from the Department for Digital, Media, Culture and Sport show that the UK’s roaring creative industries have made a record contribution to the economy in 2017 – smashing through the £100 billion mark.

Published: 30 November 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

New statistics from the Department for Digital, Media, Culture and Sport show that the UK’s roaring creative industries have made a record contribution to the economy in 2017 – smashing through the £100 billion mark.

The value of the creative industries to the UK is up from £94.8 billion in 2016 to £101.5 billion, and has grown at nearly twice the rate of the economy since 2010, according to figures published this week by the Department for Digital, Media, Culture and Sport.

Film, TV, radio, photography, music, advertising, museums, galleries and digital creative industries are all part of this thriving sector.

Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Jeremy Wright said:

"Our creative industries not only fly the flag for the best of British creativity at home and abroad but they are also at the heart of our economy.

“They have broken the £100 billion mark and continue on a hugely positive upward trajectory, outperforming the wider UK economy and bringing joy and entertainment to millions.

“We’re doing all we can to support the sector’s talent and entrepreneurship as we build a Britain that is fit for future.”

Protecting the music industry post-Brexit

It is essential for Britain’s music industry that musicians are still able to travel into and out of the country.

That’s why the MU is calling on Government and Parliament to introduce a European Union (EU) touring visa for musicians working in the EU post-Brexit.

Find out more about what we’re campaigning for and how you can get involved.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

The Welsh flag against a light blue sky.

Take the Creative Wales Industry Survey 2024

Businesses, employers, employees and freelancers in the creative sector in Wales are invited to take part in a short survey to help Creative Wales strengthen their support of the creative industries.

Published: 21 November 2024

Read more about Take the Creative Wales Industry Survey 2024