Funding for temporary film studios

UK film industry

The UK film industry is currently extremely vibrant and lively. We are pleased to be providing finance facilities for short-term ‘pop-up’ studio space in temporary structures.

Knock on effects of the pandemic

In this specific case, the supplier and client are well-known to us. This is due to them having been active in the outdoor events sector. However, as 2020 rapidly turned into a non-event sector due to the pandemic, the client diverted their attention to their side-project, providing additional space for the film industry.

The UK has long been recognised as world-leaders in this sector. Social distancing, coupled with a race for quality content led by Netflix, Amazon Prime and others means that space is at a premium. A demand that our client is very happy to meet.

How lenders are reacting to the UK film industry

Over the past 18 months our client has acquired several leasehold sites in west London. On each site they have placed several temporary structures, comprising of steel frames, modular flooring, insulated PIR side panels and insulated roofs – all of which we have been able to finance on 3 or 5-year lease arrangements (hire purchase is also an option).

However, the ‘process led’ lenders were unwilling to help, viewing this as ‘high risk’ and part of the ‘events sector’. Through established relationships with several lenders who looked further into a deal, we were able to demonstrate that this proposition was of excellent quality. Additionally, we were able to show that the customer has 100% payment record. As well as that temporary structures – and components thereof – represent solid, durable assets. These are eminently suitable for leasing or hire purchase. Overall, we were able to prove that the sector in which they operate will remain bright for many years to come.

As the events sector recovers, our lenders are starting to look at finance proposals for all types of outdoor equipment. This includes furniture, catering, sound/AV plus, of course, temporary structures and marquees. They are equally happy to finance this equipment for other sectors, including the film industry!

Contact Us

More information on the UK film industry and the different assets we can finance, as well as the events sector can be found on our website. Alternatively, if you would like to get in touch with us, please call 01494 422 614.