London will host the first ever European SXSW next week [2-7
June], showcasing the world's best innovators in tech, film and
tv, music and creativity in a major vote of confidence in the
UK's investment environment.
- As a partner of SXSW, the Department for Business and
Trade's UK House will be making its debut at SXSW London 2025,
opening its doors and bringing the best of British creativity to
connect with potential investors and buyers, creating unique
collaboration opportunities in the UK and across the world.
- The programme includes panel sessions, interactive showcases
and networking events at UK House. Speakers throughout the week
include Spotify, TikTok, Aardman, Ozwald Boateng, the Royal
Shakespeare Company, Rochelle Humes, Warner Music, the V&A
and M+C Saatchi.
- On Monday [2 June], Minister for Services, Small Business and
Exports will attend a VIP dinner
with senior representatives from the business and investment
community, where he will emphasise the UK's strength in the
creative economy and encourage international
partnerships with global investors to help foster
innovation and economic growth.
- The creative industries are truly a global innovation driver,
offering huge potential for British business and companies around
the world. Our world-class University and Higher Education
ecosystem underpins the creative industries sector on the global
stage, with £6.5 billion spent on R&D in the sector in 2022.
- The UK is already the most open, stable and connected economy
in the world – and the UK's modern Industrial Strategy will
provide investors with the competitive and dynamic environment
they need to need to thrive by securing access to key markets for
collaboration and expansion in areas like screen production,
animation and design.
Business and Trade Secretary said:
“Our creative industries are a powerhouse of global innovation
and it's a real vote of confidence in the UK that SXSW has chosen
us as its first ever European location, reflecting our position
as a truly global destination to do business.
“With creative industries being identified as a key growth sector
in our upcoming modern Industrial Strategy, we're not only
helping to attract and secure investment, but delivering
long-term growth that supports skilled jobs and raises living
standards across the UK, backing our Plan for Change.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The full programme is listed here
