UK public service broadcasters drive 85% of original TV hours

A report by Oliver & Ohlbaum Associates (O&O), released by Everyone TV, highlights the central role of public service broadcasters (PSBs) in the United Kingdom's television industry. The research indicates that PSBs accounted for 71% of UK original content investment in 2024 and are projected to provide 85% of all original programming hours in 2025.

Beyond content volume, the report emphasizes the economic impact of PSBs on the independent production sector. Production companies that received early commissions from PSBs between 2016 and 2025 have generated an estimated £3.1 billion in revenue across the wider TV commissioning market over the last five years. The data shows that PSBs are vital for small and micro-producers; in 2025, 76% of the 235 independent production groups commissioned by PSBs were classified as small producers, receiving approximately £365 million in investment.

The findings also note that PSBs support regional economies, with nearly two-thirds of original hours produced outside of London. Additionally, the report suggests PSBs drive innovation, noting that 63% of external PSB drama commissions in 2025 consisted of new intellectual property.