"This is a once-in-a-generation chance to safeguard some of the UK's most iconic recording studios". Photo: Shutterstock.
The Music Producers Guild (MPG), supported by UK Music (of which the Musicians’ Union is a member), is calling on the government to recognise UK recording studios as eligible for reduced business rates under the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure (RHL) scheme—a move that could safeguard hundreds of vital cultural spaces across the country.
With over 500 recording studios operating across the UK, these spaces form a crucial part of the music ecosystem, much like grassroots music venues. Studios require significant upfront investment, face rising operational costs, and contribute directly to local economies by drawing footfall and supporting surrounding businesses.
Many also offer onsite catering and host performances, from youth-focused leisure activities to professional-grade recordings of global significance.
“A once-in-a-generation chance to safeguard some of the UK's most iconic recording studios”
Despite their cultural and economic impact, recording studios are currently excluded from RHL support, which offers business rates relief to properties in the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors. This leaves them at a significant disadvantage compared to similar venues.
From April 2026, the government plans to introduce two reduced business rates tiers for RHL properties. However, unless the classification criteria are amended, recording studios will continue to be excluded from this much-needed support.
"This is a once-in-a-generation chance to safeguard some of the UK's most iconic recording studios," said Cameron Craig, Director of the Music Producers Guild (MPG). "Studios are public-facing cultural spaces, and it's only right they receive the same support as venues and other leisure businesses."
Inclusion in the RHL category would provide an average 40% reduction in business rates for studios
A November 2024 study by the MPG revealed a 25% surge in business rates for studios, an increase that threatens the viability of many facilities. The study also found:
- 100% of studios were unable to pass these increases on to clients.
- 50% were considering closure within the next 12 months due to rising costs.
Inclusion in the RHL category would provide an average 40% reduction in business rates, a potential lifeline for studios struggling with spiralling overheads. The financial cost to the Treasury would be minimal, while the return in terms of cultural preservation and local economic benefit would be significant.
Support the campaign
Industry leaders are now urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to take decisive action and grant recording studios their own classification within the RHL business rates framework.
Support the campaign by signing the petition today and help secure the future of the UK’s recording studios.