The Value of UK Publishing

Books set things on fire. They start sparks. They ignite your imagination, your empathy, your thinking, discussions and debates, they create new stories and new approaches. And, as a recent report from the Publisher's Association shows, they serve as fantastic fuel for the broader creative industries. For example, as compared to original scripts & screenplays book adaptations attract on average 44% more in UK film box office revenue (and 53% more globally). Between 2007-2016, 52% of the top 20 (by domestic box office gross) UK produced films were based on published material. These films grossed ￡1.5bn in UK box office revenue and ￡22.5bn globally, accounting for 61% of total UK box office gross and 65% globally. On average, these adaptations earnt 44% more revenue in the UK than films based on original screenplays, equating to an extra ￡5.4m per film.

This report was launched at a great reception organised by the Publishers Association in the House of Commons on Tuesday evening - a lovely event which was well-organised and full of interesting food for thought. 

The evening kicked off with Louise Doughty, author of Apple Tree Yard, a sparkling speaker who included some serious points in amongst jokes about Boris Johnson plotting and some references to the memorable scenes from her book and TV show which were shot in the House of Commons.

She spoke vocally about the continued need for libraries (as a child raised with libraries as my source of information and imagination I totally agree).

David Shelley, CEO of Hachette (who own Hodder and Stoughton & John Murray press) pointed out compellingly how we must all be aware of the pivotal role publishing continues to play in our economy and in the enjoyment of our lives as a nation. This report shows that it's not just the direct pleasure and interest and information we receive from books that has a positive impact, but the multiplier, incremental effect on other creative and business fields. The speakers made a plea for political focus on enshrining the gold standard of copyright through the changing situation ahead. 

Book adaptations attract on average 44% more in UK film box office revenue (and 53% more globally).

Copyright and publishing drive the development of some incredible creativity and industries for the UK. We must preserve, protect and respect their role for the sake of the incredible enjoyment and education we derive from the original content and for the impact it has on the broader creative industries that are such an important part of the UK's culture and economy.