The UK events industry is now valued at £68.7 billion, according to UKEVENTS’ newly published UK Events Report 2025 - a rise that reflects both strong domestic performance and a surge in international business redirecting to the UK.
The report positions the UK as a fast-strengthening “safe harbour” for global meetings and exhibitions, as political instability prompts organisers to relocate events from higher-risk markets. London continues to anchor the international offer, while regional destinations are gaining momentum thanks to levelling-up investment, VisitBritain’s LVEP framework and the Business Events Support Programme.
Organisers remain under pressure from rising operating costs, visa friction and persistent talent shortages, but UKEVENTS notes resilience in the market, supported by wider adoption of hybrid formats, sustainability-focused delivery and inclusivity standards. These factors, the report says, are helping UK events maintain competitiveness in a shifting global landscape.
Sector growth of 3-5 per cent annually is forecast through to 2027, outpacing several EU markets. UKEVENTS identifies priority areas including streamlined visa processes, boosted regional infrastructure and deeper integration of ESG practices.
Glenn Bowdin, chair of UKEVENTS, said: “This uplift to £68.7 billion underlines the resilience and adaptability of our industry. Events are not just economic drivers - they are catalysts for trade, innovation, and social cohesion and showcase the UK on a global stage.
“As global uncertainty persists, the UK’s stability and creativity make it a natural meeting point for the world. That’s why UKEVENTS continues to advocate for both business and cultural events to be much more centre stage in the delivery of government growth and social objectives, and for a national event strategy to help deliver the best outcomes from this.”
John Gallery, research and market intelligence lead of UKEVENTS, added: “This UKEVENTS report builds on our earlier study, drawing in the latest research and data available. The report demonstrates the importance of developing research for and about the industry, providing increasing evidence to support our understanding of the value of events.”
The full UK Events Report 2025 is available at ukevents.org.uk.
