AudioUK launches four-point manifesto to grow UK's audio production sector

AudioUK, the trade association for podcast, radio and audiobook producers, has launched a new four-point manifesto, detailing policies to grow the UK’s audio production sector. 

The manifesto, entitled "The Sound of Success", calls for political parties to support audio production "in the way that successive governments have already given a boost to other content production sectors, for example high-end and children’s TV, animation, video games and film".

The manifesto calls for an audio production tax relief to attract international investment into UK-made podcasts from brands, broadcasters and platforms, as well as a global audio IP (Intellectual Property) fund and reinstating finance for the audio content fund “which would reinvigorate the plurality of public service broadcasting content for UK audiences on commercial and community radio". 

It also calls for skills funding for the audio sector, to allow the sector to meet the anticipated increase in demand both in audiobooks and podcasting. Lastly, as the BBC takes its place in the wider podcast market through its expansion of BBC Studios’ audio production arm, AudioUK wants to see a commitment in the next BBC Charter to introduce 100% competition to make non-news BBC radio and audio content which “would ensure UK independent producers were able to contribute fully to the BBC having a wide a range of viewpoints, stories, ideas and perspectives”. 

Chloe Straw, managing director of AudioUK, said: “As the global podcast and audiobook industries show sustained exponential growth, coupled with the enduring strength of radio reach in the UK, it is imperative for the government to actively champion and foster this thriving creative sector. Aligning it with other creative industries in the UK will empower the sector to fully capitalise on the vast domestic and global opportunities available.”