The Media Production & Technology Show (MPTS) wrapped up its most vibrant edition yet after two days filled with discussions, networking, and inspiration, attracting a record-breaking 13,000 attendees from 50 countries. Taking place on May 14–15 at Olympia London, this event united the UK’s media and entertainment sectors in a landmark gathering that showcased both the challenges and transformative opportunities currently facing the industry.

This year’s MPTS boasted a comprehensive editorial program with over 100 free sessions across eight theatres. More than 350 expert speakers and keynote guests shared their insights, visions, and creativity, while the exhibition floor buzzed with over 300 exhibitors and sponsors displaying cutting-edge technology and the remarkable talent driving the UK’s creative and technical sectors.

The event commenced with the keynote “State of the Nation: Production,” which illuminated the sweeping changes reshaping the media landscape. “TV doesn’t exist anymore in the way we knew it,” remarked Kate Beal, CEO of Woodcut Media. Derren Lawford, CEO of Dare Pictures, added, “We are in the midst of a decade of profound transition, and we’ve passed the tipping point.” Both emphasized that traditional television is now just one component of a broader content ecosystem that encompasses various creators, formats, and platforms.

High-profile speakers shared their insights on the main stages. Acclaimed producer and presenter Ross Kemp recounted his experiences documenting perilous global conflicts and organized crime, highlighting the essential role of truth in storytelling. Georgie Holt from Flight Story, producers of the globally popular podcast Diary of a CEO, advocated for the rise of the “Founder Creator”—a new era where content creators bypass traditional gatekeepers to forge direct, monetizable relationships with their audiences.

Former NFL player and current broadcaster Jason Bell discussed the evolving nature of sports media, pointing to the success of documentary formats like Drive to Survive as pivotal in enhancing audience engagement by showcasing athletes’ personal stories. Hollywood editor Eddie Hamilton, known for Top Gun: Maverick and multiple Mission: Impossible films, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous craft of blockbuster editing, describing days spent analyzing 10-minute scenes repeatedly to perfect the audience’s visual journey.

Representation and inclusion were central to MPTS, with organizers prioritizing diverse voices and equal opportunities throughout the program and exhibition floor. The event received widespread acclaim for attracting a new generation of talent and fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and drives meaningful change.

Sustainability emerged as another key theme, with the BAFTA-aligned Sustainability Series bringing crucial discussions to the forefront. Industry experts, including Jimmy Keeping (Sustainable Film), Nazia Zaman (Warner Bros. Discovery), Junaid Baig (Dimension Studio), and Claire O’Neill (A Greener Future), addressed the urgent need for environmentally responsible production practices.

As the curtains fell on what has become the largest MPTS to date, the event left a powerful message: the future of media and entertainment lies in embracing change, championing innovation, and building inclusive, sustainable communities ready to tackle the next frontier of storytelling.

Sam Street, Marketing Officer, BAFTA Albert, commented: “MPTS is a pivotal moment in our calendar. It’s always wonderful to connect with suppliers, companies, studios, and creatives who share our passion for sustainability within the screen industries. Curating our sustainability series of panels this year has been incredibly valuable, leading to insightful discussions and emphasizing the importance of environmental focus throughout the screen industries.”

“We didn’t need a machine to predict the high demand for news and information about AI. The newly introduced ticketed AI Training program and the expanded AI Media Zone attracted exceptional attendance, featuring exhibitors like Dot Group, Moments Lab, and Software. Conversations in these packed sessions revolved around the impact of AI from ideation to VFX, with real-world insights and discussions on bridging the gap between theory and practice from speakers including Pete Archer (BBC), Jon Roberts (ITN), and Damien Viel (Banijay Entertainment).”

“With a record number of exhibitors already rebooking for 2026, MPTS continues to solidify its status as the UK’s premier event for media and production professionals, where brands, creatives, and decision-makers converge to connect, collaborate, and grow.”

Jane Shepard, Senior Channel Marketing Manager, Sandisk, added: “MPTS 2025 was a spectacular showcase of innovation, uniting the brightest minds and cutting-edge technology in the industry. An unforgettable experience for all attendees.”

Tom Rundle, Application Engineer, Yamaha Music, stated: “It has been incredibly busy for us. We’ve encountered a diverse mix of customers from the broadcast sector, as well as those from other industries like live events and theatre, who specifically sought us out at the show. Will we return next year? Absolutely! This was our first year, and it exceeded our expectations significantly.”

Peter Alderson, Business Manager, Nikon, said: “This is our second year at MPTS, and we’ve expanded our presence, nearly doubling our stand size. Partnering with RED, which we recently acquired, and MRMC, has made a strong statement about our market position, and I believe we’re in the right place to convey that at MPTS.”

Jennifer Hudson, Marketing Executive, Videndum, noted: “This show is crucial in our calendar—we attend nearly every year and find immense value in it. We’ve made numerous connections and walked away with several leads. It’s a fantastic show, and we wholeheartedly recommend anyone considering a stand here to go for it—you won’t regret it.”

Will Pitt, Head of Sales Solutions, Techex, remarked: “My impression of the show is that it’s been incredibly busy and very positive. Techex specializes in addressing the challenges the broadcast industry faces, particularly the transition to an IP-led architecture from legacy systems. Our stands have been consistently busy with attendees eager to discuss specific solutions tailored to their needs. We appreciate MPTS for its London location, making it convenient for local engineers to engage with us in person.”

Charlotte Wheeler, Event Director, MPTS, noted: “Without a doubt, 2025 was the most stimulating and forward-thinking MPTS yet. Amidst industry pressures from budget cuts to talent shortages and constant change, the conversations and connections on the show floor were positive, showcasing an infectious community spirit. The level of attendance and the quality of attendees from all sectors of the industry were remarkable—not just technology stakeholders, but also representatives from production, commissioning, the creator economy, newcomers to the industry, and freelancers, all gathered under one roof.”

“A significant amount of effort goes into ensuring equal representation across our extensive conference program. I take pride in the fact that MPTS is one of the most diverse shows, both in terms of attendees and panelists.”

“Thank you to everyone who exhibited, sponsored, spoke, attended, and engaged with the show to make MPTS such a thrilling success. We are already planning for 2026, which will mark MPTS’ 10th edition, so look forward to a landmark celebration!”