A comprehensive study examining the animation, VFX, motion graphics, game cinematics, and immersive media sectors in Greater Manchester has been released.
The report shows that the industry has reached a total value of £120.3 million, marking significant growth in recent years.
Combined company turnover more than doubled, rising from £50 million between 2017 and 2021 to £120.3 million in the 2022–2024 period. As of 2025, the sector employs 1,665 people and has produced more than 7,000 hours of content over the past two years.
Companies in the region collaborate with major organizations such as the BBC, Disney, Netflix, Channel 4, ITV, Sky, Sony, Channel 5, Apple TV, Microsoft, and the NHS. Manchester-based studio One6th also highlighted the region’s creative strength after winning a BAFTA award for its stop-motion short film Two Black Boys in Paradise.
Despite these achievements, the animation situation is more fragile for freelancers, who make up 77% of the sector’s workforce. According to the survey, 42% of freelancers feel that job security has declined, while 28% are considering leaving the industry altogether. Overall, 70% report losing confidence in the sector or planning to exit it.
The study also found that 58% of freelance work originates within Greater Manchester, 29% from other parts of the UK, and the remainder from international clients. Attitudes toward artificial intelligence remain divided, with 42% reporting a negative impact on their work, while 11% say AI has had a positive effect.
The report recommends formally recognizing animation as a priority industry within regional strategies, expanding funding for new IP development, and increasing support mechanisms for freelancers in order to sustain the sector’s growth.
