New survey shows deep stress in UK events sector after Autumn Budget

A newly released survey by Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) reveals a divided outlook for the UK events industry after the 2025 Autumn Budget. According to the “Stronger Together” survey shared by Event Industry News nearly half (46%) of surveyed event businesses expect higher revenue in 2025, while almost one-third (29%) anticipate decline.

Early-year demand shows a similar split: 35% of businesses reported more confirmed bookings for January 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, but 31% saw fewer.

While the Budget’s lower tax rates benefit some businesses, the survey highlights limited help for event suppliers. Rising National Living Wage and operating costs are hitting companies already under pressure especially when nearly half (49%) say their clients don’t understand the real logistics and costs behind delivering events.Staffing issues are another major challenge. About 68% of organizations said they’re operating at full capacity, but 73% found recruitment difficult over the past year. The vast majority (88%) attribute hiring problems to a shortage of skilled candidates.

On the bright side, changes in the Budget include a youth guarantee: fully funded apprenticeships for under-25s in small and medium businesses. Some respondents see hope in this as a chance to rebuild talent pipelines in the events sector.

Author: Kizzy Allott
Original source: Event Industry News