News · 21 January 2026
UK Grassroots Music Venues Face Closures Amidst Financial Struggles
Grassroots music venues in the UK are struggling, with 53% reporting no profit in 2025. Thirty venues closed, resulting in 6,000 job losses. Despite a 13% increase in gig attendance and stable ticket prices, financial pressures, including rising National Insurance payments, are major factors. The Music Venue Trust reports a slight decrease in the rate of venue decline. The MVT is also undertaking initiatives to support venues, such as crowdfunding to purchase freeholds and rent them back to operators.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs