UK grassroots music venues show lowest decline since 2018 as sector stabilises post-pandemic

"The number of grassroots music venues (GMV) in the UK shrank in effect by just nine in 2025, the lowest rate of annual decline since 2018. Thirty venues closed permanently between July 2024 and 2025 and 48 ceased functioning as GMVs, citing financial viability, change in ownership and eviction or redevelopment. However, 69 spaces that had previously ceased operating as GMVs returned to the sector. The figures suggest the stabilisation of the sector five years on from the pandemic,"

"Employment in the sector is also down by almost 22%, a significant drop from 30,885 to 24,242 people, with venues citing national insurance increases for employers as the principal cause of job losses. The MVT said that the majority of venues are one financial shock away from crisis. Additionally, the MVT said its emergency response service dealt with a record number of appeals from venues facing financial insecurity, neighbouring planning applications and pressure from music licensing bodies."

"The MVT has called for the government to legislate rather than just back the introduction of the grassroots levy, in which UK arena and stadium shows add 1 to all tickets to create a fund to support GMVs. Currently, the scheme is voluntary. Some venues, including London's O2 Arena, as well as artists including Sam Fender and Katy Perry, have independently added 1 to ticket prices."

Grassroots music venues in the UK experienced a net reduction of nine venues in 2025, the smallest annual decline since 2018. Between July 2024 and 2025, thirty venues closed permanently and forty-eight ceased operating as GMVs, while sixty-nine former GMVs returned to activity. Total revenue reached 76.6m in 2025, yet 53.8% of GMVs reported no profit and the average profit margin was 2.5%. Employment fell nearly 22%, from 30,885 to 24,242, with national insurance increases cited as a primary cause of job losses. The sector remains one financial shock away from crisis and the MVT urged legislative action for a grassroots levy.

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