The UK’s voluntary ticket levy for grassroots music venues has taken a significant step forward following the government’s ministerial roundtable with live music industry representatives on December 18. This initiative aims to address the decline of these vital cultural spaces by redirecting a small percentage of arena and stadium ticket revenue to struggling grassroots venues, artists, and promoters. Here’s what we know so far.
The meeting, chaired by Sir Chris Bryant, Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism, brought together key figures from the live music industry, including representatives from LIVE (Live Music Industry Venues & Entertainment). Although the full attendee list hasn’t been disclosed, nor has the content of the meeting, notable contributions could have come from LIVE board members John Drury, Chair of the National Arenas Association, and Kelly Wood of the Musicians’ Union, though their board is made up of 20 different heads and chairs of various music organisations.
Though neither Drury or Wood have made comments on the meeting, Drury posted on LinkedIn praising the support from ASM Global to the Music Venue Trust when the announcement was made two weeks ago. Drury is a major voice in this conversation, involved in both the OVO Arena London and with a significant role at ASM Global.
It was heartening to hear the minister once again endorse the government’s desire to support grassroots venues, festivals, artists and promoters.” – Jon Collins, CEO, LIVE
— Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) December 18, 2024
LIVE’s CEO, Jon Collins, outlined a cautious yet hopeful perspective on the levy’s potential, emphasising that any scheme must involve continued collaboration, as well as the need to accelerate the process of establishing a body to distribute the funds. LIVE, established during the COVID-19 pandemic to advocate for the industry, is keen to ensure the initiative delivers tangible results.
Commenting on the meeting, Mark Davyd, CEO of MVT said: “We want to thank the LIVE team for all the hard work to reach a consensus on pushing ahead with the much discussed grassroots contribution from every arena and stadium ticket sold. The meeting today with Minister for Culture Chris Bryant was a great example of the whole ecosystem pulling together to create an outcome that, ultimately, benefits all of us working in the live industry and everyone who loves live music.”
The meeting today with Minister for Culture Chris Bryant was a great example of the whole ecosystem pulling together to create an outcome that, ultimately, benefits all of us working in the live industry and everyone who loves live music.” – Mark Davyd, CEO & Founder, MVT — Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) December 18, 2024
France’s statutory 3.5% ticket levy, which supports grassroots venues, promoters, and artists through centrally administered funds, has frequently been cited as a reference point when discussing the UKs own potential levy. Jon Collins of LIVE stressed the importance of adapting to the UK’s unique VAT structure in a May report, warning against a wholesale replication. However, the French model’s proven ability to stabilise its grassroots ecosystem highlights what a structured approach, backed by the government, can achieve.
In that same report, Mark Davyd noted a critical distinction: France requires international touring acts to contribute, a measure that hasn’t specifically been mentioned in plans for the UK’s voluntary scheme. This omission could limit the levy’s scope, although Katy Perry has announced that she will contribute during her upcoming UK tour.
Support for the levy has come from major artists such as Coldplay and Sam Fender, who have pledged portions of their ticket revenues alongside Perry. Additionally, venue operators like ASM Global have collaborated with MVT on fan donation schemes. However, these schemes shift the financial burden onto audiences rather than the wider industry.
In the last week, Ticketmaster also redirected funds donated from ticket buyers to grassroots venues. After matching each donation, Ticketmaster were able to donate £60,000. Speaking about this donation, Mark Davyd said: “We are very grateful to Ticketmaster and its customers for their support at a time when this type of initiative is very much needed.”
Light at the end of the tunnel for Grassroots Music Venues. People who say it can’t be done should get out of the way of people doing it. Read our statement in full: https://t.co/eqY1blNXBy More resources on this via: https://t.co/Q2lGy05wwp pic.twitter.com/TauMAkq9cm — Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) November 14, 2024
With a trial year slated for early 2025, there is pressure to act swiftly. Sir Chris Bryant has set ambitious goals for progress within the first quarter of the year, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The trial will include independent evaluation to determine its effectiveness and address any shortcomings.
One recurring concern is the lack of immediate relief for grassroots venues, which continue to face severe financial pressures. While the levy represents a potential long-term solution, stakeholders are urging interim measures to prevent further closures.
Grassroots venues are vital cultural and economic assets, providing the pipeline of talent for the UK’s £6.7 billion live music industry. Their survival requires collaboration across the sector. The voluntary levy offers a chance to prove that industry-led initiatives can succeed—but only if all parties actively engage and commit to meaningful change. The government hasn’t ruled out making the levy mandatory, if required.
As the first quarter of 2025 approaches, the live music industry faces a pivotal moment. The voluntary levy has the potential to safeguard the UK’s grassroots music scene, but its success depends on swift, coordinated action.
