The UK’s Experience Economy: spanning culture, entertainment, immersive attractions, hospitality, and experiential retail, is among the country’s fastest-growing sectors, valued at £300 billion in 2022.  The industry drives employment, tourism, exports, and urban regeneration across UK cities.  Globally, the sector is worth $5.2 trillion, with forecasts suggesting it could reach $12.8 trillion by 2028. Yet, the UK’s policy and regulatory frameworks have not kept pace with this growth. Planning laws, licensing systems, business rates, tax policy, and statutory services, such as policing, were not designed for the demands of 21st-century experience districts, especially in dynamic, high-footfall areas like London’s West End. How can targeted policy reform foster innovation, attract investment, and unlock the full growth potential of the UK’s Experience Economy?

This event will:

• Highlight areas for policy reform and cross-sector collaboration to unlock investment, stimulate innovation, and support long-term sector resilience
• Identify what key barriers face businesses operating in hospitality, entertainment and events and how industry can mitigate these challenges.
• Discuss how government and industry can work together to develop creative, experience-led places that drive economic and social value