The Economic Benefits of Film Production

While most of us know of the film and television production industry as a source of entertainment, we may overlook the significant driver of economic growth that the screen industries bring. When a production is set up in a region, it brings a wide range of economic benefits that can have both immediate and long-lasting impacts on the community.

One of the most immediate economic impacts of film and TV production is the direct local spending. Film crews need accommodation, food, transportation, and various other services. This spending benefits local businesses like hotels, restaurants, car rental services, and retail stores. For example, during the production of a feature film, a single production can spend hundreds of thousands of pounds locally, significantly boosting the revenue of local businesses.

The screen industries also create job opportunities for the local workforce. These include support roles such as tradesmen, drivers, and caterers. The demand for these services provides employment opportunities and often leads to skills development and training for local workers.

Over the longer term, films and television shows can have a lasting impact on tourism and the visitor economy. Iconic locations featured in popular films often become tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. This phenomenon, known as film tourism, can provide a sustainable source of revenue for local economies. For instance, destinations like New Zealand have seen a significant increase in tourism due to their association with blockbuster films like “The Lord of the Rings.” In Yorkshire, long-running shows like “All Creatures Great and Small” and “Emmerdale” are synonymous with the Yorkshire experience, with their loyal fan base driving visitors to the region. In 2023 the ‘Happy Valley’ effect saw Calder Valley ranked as the fastest growing area for small businesses.

Productions can also contribute to the cultural enrichment of the local community, putting lesser-known regions on the map, showcasing their unique landscapes, culture, and heritage to a global audience. This exposure can lead to increased cultural pride and a stronger sense of identity among local residents.

In the past ten years Screen Yorkshire has invested nearly £23m into local production through its Yorkshire Content Fund, driving high levels of film and TV activity to Yorkshire. This has leveraged a total of £234m in production spend, over 10 times the amount invested, So next time you watch something filmed in Yorkshire, consider the broader value screen industries are delivering in economic benefits to our region.

If you’d like to find out more about what we do, visit https://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/