17 September 2013 – London, United Kingdom – Games industry body Ukie has today called for better measurement of the size and economic potential of the games and interactive entertainment sector in the UK, and for more support for start-ups in particular.
Ukie CEO Dr Jo Twist spoke today on a UK Music hosted panel session with BIS Secretary of State Vince Cable, saying: “Small and micro studios are flourishing across the UK, but more needs to be done to ensure they have a sustainable future.”
She underlined the importance of predicting growth and called on government to more accurately measure the industry: “We know that the official statistics are not as good as they should be and we need much better official statistics on the true size and shape of the games industry, and indeed the creative industries as a whole. We are working with the ONS to make sure the government’s own system is picking up all the companies it should be.”
Dr Twist, who will be speaking at similar events at all three party conferences, also outlined how the perception of the games and interactive entertainment industry impacts how investors and international markets identify economic opportunities and what policy interventions are needed. She said: “The first thing, of course, is to find the areas where companies are springing up. A huge amount can be done just by highlighting the existing success stories and making sure that the attention isn’t all drawn to Tech City in London. Showing the investment community that games is a thriving sector, and that companies can succeed wherever they are, will be the first step in unlocking capital and helping games companies to grow.”
Dr Twist has also called on government to do more to recognise the potential of the games industry generally, particularly in supporting new start ups, stating: “The games industry offers huge potential for growth in all parts of the UK, and a major part of this in future will be the appearance of more and more successful small studios. We are already seeing some great success in clusters around the country, including Leamington Spa, Dundee and Bristol. The government has to recognise this organic growth and do whatever it can to support it.”
“Once identified, we need to do everything we can to support these companies and help them grow. Access to finance and access to skills are both absolutely vital issues for every company operating in a digital economy.”
Dr Twist will be repeating this message at similar, UK Music hosted events, at the Labour conference being held on 23rd September in Brighton and the Conservative conference being held on 30th September in Salford.