NTIA Electronic Music Report Highlights £2.4 Billion Contribution to UK Economy and Calls for Government Recognition
06 February 2025 - Press releaseNTIA Calls for the Department for Culture to Recognise the Value of Electronic Music, As 2025 Electronic Music Report Highlights £2.4 Billion Contribution to UK Economy
- The third annual UK Electronic Music Industry Report details the genre's vast value, potential, and need for Government recognition.
- The genre contributed an estimated £2.4 billion to the UK economy in 2024, and accounted for £215.2 million in recorded music publishing and exports.
- The report also highlights that 80% of the top 30 global artists in 2024 have been significantly influenced by electronic music, while 29% share of artists performing at UK festivals in 2024 were electronic—the highest of any genre.
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) proudly presents the third edition of the UK Electronic Music Industry Report, in collaboration with Audience Strategies and supported by Amazon Music. This groundbreaking report highlights the undeniable economic, cultural, and community value of the electronic music industry in the UK.
The 2025 report underscores electronic music’s significant contributions to the national economy, detailing its impact across recorded music, publishing, and the vibrant live music sector, including concerts, events, and festivals. It also highlights the essential role of electronic music nightclubs in fostering community, inclusivity, and tolerance - values that are deeply embedded in the genre’s DNA.
Despite these contributions, electronic music continues to be sidelined from policy discussions and excluded from key support mechanisms within the Department for Culture. This marginalisation undermines not only the industry's economic potential, but also its ability to nurture creativity, innovation, and future talent. The NTIA calls on the Government to acknowledge electronic music’s rightful place in the cultural and economic landscape, ensuring that it is no longer disregarded in national conversations about music and the arts.
A key focus of the report is the importance of education in securing the industry's future. Addressing gaps in the talent pipeline is essential for sustaining growth and fostering the next generation of artists, producers, and industry professionals. By investing in education, innovation, and community engagement, the UK can continue to be a global leader in electronic music.
There are both challenges and opportunities ahead, but with Government recognition and meaningful support, the electronic music industry can thrive, creating jobs, driving economic growth, and enriching cultural life across the country. The NTIA urges the Department for Culture to embrace electronic music, provide it with the platform it deserves, and work collaboratively to unlock its full potential.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Report:
Economic Impact: Electronic music remains a dynamic economic and cultural cornerstone of the UK, contributing an estimated £2.4 billion in 2024 alone and recorded music and publishing together reached £133.9 million in domestic revenues.
Global Recognition: £81.3 million: Estimated UK electronic music exports in 2024 (recorded music + publishing), up 3% from last year.
Festival Frontiers: Demand for electronic music at festivals continues to thrive. 310 UK festivals in 2024 featured electronic music (up from 294 in 2023), drawing over a million attendees - a 14% increase. This surge has pushed festival revenues up to £646.2 million
Nightclubs Numbers: 851 nightclubs in 2024 (down from 875 in 2023). With a total revenue of £1,232 million: Total economic contribution from nightclubs in 2024, down 16% from £1,463 million in 2023.
Recorded Music Publishing and Exports: £215.2 million Overall total for recorded music, publishing, and exports—rising 1.7% from £211.7 million last year.
Cultural Impact: 80%: The share of the top 30 global artists over the last year who have been significantly influenced by electronic music, up from 73% previously.
Artists Exposure: 29% share of artists performing at UK festivals in 2024 are electronic—the highest of any genre (Rock 22%, Pop 20%).
Artists Exposure: 29% share of artists performing at UK festivals in 2024 are electronic—the highest of any genre (Rock 22%, Pop 20%).
Events Audience Growth: 72 Independent festivals cancelled, postponed, or closed in 2024, despite overall attendance growth for the sector.
Beyond the numbers, the ‘Electronic Beats, Economic Treats 2025’ report dives into the narratives that defined 2024, uncovers emerging trends for 2024, and celebrates the sector's influencers through insightful case studies.
Before You Dive In:
For a comparative perspective, take a moment to download and review "Electronic Beats, Economic Treats 2024." Download the 2023 Report
Explore the Latest 2025 Insights: Unlock exclusive access to 'The third UK Electronic Music Industry Report' by entering your email address. Down full 2025 report here
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, commented:
"Electronic music is one of the UK’s most significant cultural exports, contributing an estimated £2.4 billion to the economy in 2024 alone. Yet, despite its undeniable influence and growth, it remains hidden and marginalised by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. This report reinforces the importance of electronic music having a seat at the table—DCMS must recognise this sector as a truly valuable commodity, not an afterthought."
Before You Dive In:
For a comparative perspective, take a moment to download and review "Electronic Beats, Economic Treats 2024." Download the 2023 Report
Explore the Latest 2025 Insights: Unlock exclusive access to 'The third UK Electronic Music Industry Report' by entering your email address. Down full 2025 report here
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, commented:
"Electronic music is one of the UK’s most significant cultural exports, contributing an estimated £2.4 billion to the economy in 2024 alone. Yet, despite its undeniable influence and growth, it remains hidden and marginalised by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. This report reinforces the importance of electronic music having a seat at the table—DCMS must recognise this sector as a truly valuable commodity, not an afterthought."
"From the rise in UK festivals embracing electronic music—310 in 2024, drawing over a million attendees—to its growing global influence, this genre continues to shape contemporary culture. 80% of the world’s top 30 artists have been significantly shaped by electronic music. The numbers speak for themselves: this is not just a niche genre, but a driving force in the creative economy."
"For too long, the electronic music industry has been overlooked when it comes to policy and support. It is time for the government to engage meaningfully, acknowledging its vast economic and cultural impact. This is not just about music—it is about jobs, communities, and the UK’s standing on the global stage."
Rufy Ghazi, Audience Strategies:
“As a lifelong fan of electronic music and a DJ, my love for this genre has grown even stronger through this research. The UK’s electronic music scene is a beautiful testament to resilience and creativity, especially during tough times. Adapting to economic pressures, artists and venues have discovered ways to connect with audiences, embracing fresh ideas and new formats to keep the music alive and thriving.
We spoke to 30 experts from the scene, and our research has revealed just how important this community is. It drives real economic value, from small grassroots venues to massive international festivals. These spaces are more than just places to dance; they foster a sense of belonging and ignite cultural innovation that enriches neighbourhoods across the country.
Despite challenges like venue closures and rising costs, we're seeing exciting growth in areas like hybrid spaces, community-owned venues, and creative programming that reaches diverse audiences. The industry’s influence isn't limited to the UK; it resonates globally, and the genre's export value is undeniably strong.
With the right support mechanisms and policies, the UK can solidify its position as a leader in electronic music. The evidence is clear: supporting electronic music isn't just about preserving nightlife – it's about investing in one of Britain's most dynamic cultural and economic assets.”
Dame Caroline Dinenage, Chair of the DCMS Select Committee:
“Electronic music is a vital part of the UK’s rich cultural tapestry, showcasing our nation’s creativity and innovation on the global stage. It has grown from grassroots communities into a world-renowned industry, generating significant economic and cultural exports.”
“Electronic music is a vital part of the UK’s rich cultural tapestry, showcasing our nation’s creativity and innovation on the global stage. It has grown from grassroots communities into a world-renowned industry, generating significant economic and cultural exports.”
“Protecting and nurturing grassroots electronic music is essential—not only for supporting emerging talent but also for safeguarding this vibrant and influential part of our cultural heritage. It is a cornerstone of our creative identity and must be valued as a key contributor to the UK's soft power and global reputation.”
Wes Saunders, CEO Defected Records:
“In the kaleidoscopic world of electronic music, where the sounds of tomorrow are constantly being shaped today, we stand at an extraordinary intersection of culture, technology, and commerce. As we venture into 2025, it's essential to recognise the profound impact and transformative power of the electronic music industry - not just within the borders of the United Kingdom but as a pivotal force on the global stage.”
“Electronic music thrives through the interplay of live performances, digital streams, and the unyielding spirit of its creators and fans. From the underground clubs to massive festival stages, from the private studios of bedroom producers to the public playlists of global streaming platforms, electronic music weaves a tapestry of cultural exchange and economic opportunity.”
Steven Braines, Co-founder, HE.SHE.THEY, Board Member, NTIA:
“As an advocate for equality, diversity, inclusion, and innovation within electronic music, I am honoured to contribute to this year’s Electronic Music Report. The genre has always been at the forefront of cultural change, breaking boundaries and bringing people together through the universal power of sound. From the underground rave culture to the global festival stages, electronic music has continuously evolved, pushing the limits of what’s possible and inspiring countless communities across the world.”
“As we look ahead, I am filled with hope for the future of our scene. The next generation of artists, producers, and fans are shaping a more inclusive, creative, and dynamic environment. Let us all work together to nurture this growth, ensuring that the future of electronic music is brighter, more inclusive, and more innovative than ever before.”
Wes Saunders, CEO Defected Records:
“In the kaleidoscopic world of electronic music, where the sounds of tomorrow are constantly being shaped today, we stand at an extraordinary intersection of culture, technology, and commerce. As we venture into 2025, it's essential to recognise the profound impact and transformative power of the electronic music industry - not just within the borders of the United Kingdom but as a pivotal force on the global stage.”
“Electronic music thrives through the interplay of live performances, digital streams, and the unyielding spirit of its creators and fans. From the underground clubs to massive festival stages, from the private studios of bedroom producers to the public playlists of global streaming platforms, electronic music weaves a tapestry of cultural exchange and economic opportunity.”
Steven Braines, Co-founder, HE.SHE.THEY, Board Member, NTIA:
“As an advocate for equality, diversity, inclusion, and innovation within electronic music, I am honoured to contribute to this year’s Electronic Music Report. The genre has always been at the forefront of cultural change, breaking boundaries and bringing people together through the universal power of sound. From the underground rave culture to the global festival stages, electronic music has continuously evolved, pushing the limits of what’s possible and inspiring countless communities across the world.”
“As we look ahead, I am filled with hope for the future of our scene. The next generation of artists, producers, and fans are shaping a more inclusive, creative, and dynamic environment. Let us all work together to nurture this growth, ensuring that the future of electronic music is brighter, more inclusive, and more innovative than ever before.”
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