We’re finishing the first full week of 2026. How are we all feeling? If you missed a meeting, forgot the name of the project you were meant to start, or spent the first few days wrestling with tech rather than making progress, you’re not alone. Research consistently shows that over half of UK workers struggle to get back into work rhythm after the Christmas break, as routine, focus and energy take time to reset. Studies looking at post-holiday work patterns and wellbeing highlight that early January is one of the hardest points in the year to regain momentum. However, what matters is not how your first week started, but gaining clarity about how you really want 2026 to be for you.
From Momentum to Acceleration: Making 2026 Work
As we move into the 2026, the tone changes.
Less reflection. More reality.
This will be a year shaped by growth and acquisition, but not without pressure. Across live events, corporate film and brand video, larger and better-capitalised businesses are actively looking to acquire specialist capability, talent and expertise. Consolidation is happening and will continue.
At the same time, many businesses, big and small, will feel the strain. Margins remain tight. Clients are more selective. Procurement is more involved. Technology expectations are rising fast.
Growth is real. But so is challenge.
Live Events and Corporate Film: The Market Reality
In live events, the long-term picture remains positive. Global industry forecasts continue to show growth driven by demand for in-person connection, product launches and brand experience. Research from PCMA shows that 88% of corporate event planners expect budgets to increase in 2026, particularly for strategically important events such as launches and leadership programmes. What has changed is scrutiny. Events are expected to justify their cost through clearer ROI, data capture and measurable outcomes.
In corporate film and brand video, demand is also holding, but unevenly. The UK video production market, which includes corporate and brand video, was valued at around USD 3.86bn in 2024 and is forecast to grow at roughly 13% per year between 2026 and 2033. (Deep Market Insights)
However, sector-specific analysis shows a more mixed picture in practice. UK corporate video production companies are averaging around 6% growth, with wide variation between businesses. Some are growing strongly. Many are flat. Others are declining. (Plimsoll)
Across both live and film, technology is accelerating change. AI, automation, data and hybrid delivery are no longer optional. Clients increasingly expect smarter planning, more tailored content, better reporting and clearer impact.
Spend is there. But it is more deliberate, and expectations are higher.
What This Means for EVCOM Members
In this environment, the dynamics are clear:
- Larger organisations will continue to grow through acquisition and scale, particularly where specialist live or film capability adds value
- Smaller companies will need to adapt quickly and define a clear niche, whether that’s sector focus, format, craft or technology
- Mid-sized businesses will need to be highly intentional about positioning, visibility and relevance
- Everyone will need to demonstrate confidence in delivery, technology and outcomes
Standing still is not neutral. It is a risk.
Why EVCOM Matters Right Now
This is exactly where EVCOM earns its place.
When markets consolidate and clients become more selective, networks, profile and credibility matter more than ever. EVCOM provides platforms that individual businesses cannot create alone, bringing together agencies, producers, commissioners and partners across live events and corporate film.
Our events, awards and initiatives are not just celebrations. They are commercial tools designed to help members be seen, trusted and connected when opportunities arise.
Raising Profile Across Live and Film: The Top 50
One of the most important opportunities in Q1 is the Top 50 Survey and Reveal Event, Produced by Moving Image in partnership with EVCOM.
The Top 50 ranks the UK’s leading independent producers in corporate film and brand video, with results shared with the BFI to demonstrate the value of this work to the wider screen industries. It provides benchmarking, visibility and a recognised point of reference for commissioners and buyers.
Participation comes with clear benefits, including early access to the report and discounted audience insight support. In a year where acquisition, repositioning and consolidation are real, being visible in credible industry benchmarks matters.
Alongside this, EVCOM’s awards across live events and film remain one of the strongest ways to demonstrate quality, capability and third-party validation in both disciplines.
Take part in the survey today, free of charge, by clicking here.
How the EVCOM Calendar Supports Adaptation and Growth
EVCOM’s Q1 and Q2 programme is designed deliberately around these pressures across both live and film.
January focuses on visibility and reconnection, with the launch of the Top 50 survey, opening of Clarion Awards entries and the London Live & Film Awards Winners Lunch.
February shifts to growth and delivery. The Senior Leaders Breakfast focuses on growth and acquisition, informed by JFDI research and real-world experience. The Film Producers Lunch and Event Leaders Lunch keep conversations grounded in delivery, capability and challenge.
March brings agencies, producers and commissioners together through the Top 50 Reveal and sector-specific lunches, creating space for meaningful conversation about quality, performance and future opportunity.
Each of these moments is designed to help members adapt to change, sharpen positioning and build relationships that matter.
What 2026 Is Really About
2026 is not about pretending everything is positive. It is about being honest about pressure, realistic about change and proactive about opportunity.
Some businesses will grow through acquisition.
Some will grow through specialisation.
Some will need support to adapt and reposition.
EVCOM is here for all of that, across live events and corporate film.
We built momentum last year.
This year is about using it well.
Here’s to a focused, commercially aware and resilient 2026, and to everything we’ll build together.