Film Agencies Unite For UK Investment

Film London and Screen South have announced a ground-breaking new partnership merging their filming services which will now represent 85% of the UK's film industry.
This new strategic collaboration aims to assist more domestic and international production, increasing inward investment to London and the south east.
This new filming partnership will continue to service all production industries including film, TV, commercials and video games. Its remit will encompass London’s 33 local authorities as well as Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Middlesex, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex. It will also represent the majority of the country’s major studios including Pinewood, Shepperton, Ealing, 3 Mills and Maidstone.
Adrian Wootton, Chief Executive of Film London said: "By joining forces we can provide a more extensive range of expertise and knowledge to give productions the best possible service. London is one of the world’s busiest production centre’s, the south east is home to some of the world’s best studios and together we offer a metropolitan city, areas of outstanding natural beauty and world-class talent – it is the complete package. Providing a single point of contact will deliver a more coherent and efficient service, avoiding duplication, which will benefit productions of all sizes."
Jo Nolan, Chief Executive of Screen South said: "The primary aim of the merger is to add value and be of benefit to the industry. In 2009 50% of the productions assisted by Film London and Screen South saw significant cross over, being serviced by both agencies. This merger solidifies an existing positive working relationship and for film-makers it simplifies the process. The partnership will increase the level of expertise and support on offer, making the area and its assets more attractive which in turn will achieve more business."
The joint service will be delivered by Film London’s Inward Investment & Business Development team in partnership with Screen South. Screen South’s current Film Commissioner will be appointed as the Filming Partnership Manager for London and the south east and the team will be based out of Pinewood and Film London’s central London’s offices.
(BMcN/BMcc)