As the UK’s music industry continues to recover from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new report from the Music Venue Trust (MVT) has shed light on the state of the country’s grassroots music venues (GMVs). While the sector has shown signs of stabilisation, with the number of venues shrinking by just nine in 2025, the challenges facing these vital cultural spaces remain significant.
The MVT’s annual report reveals that 30 venues closed permanently between July 2024 and 2025, while 48 ceased functioning as GMVs due to financial viability issues, changes in ownership, and evictions or redevelopment. However, the report also notes that 69 spaces that had previously ceased operating as GMVs returned to the sector, suggesting a glimmer of hope.
The financial picture for these venues is a mixed one, with more than half (53.8%) reporting no profit in 2025 and an average profit margin of just 2.5%. The MVT has warned that “the majority of venues are one financial shock away from crisis,” highlighting the precarious nature of the sector.
Employment in the GMV sector has also taken a significant hit, dropping by almost 22% from 30,885 to 24,242 people, with venues citing increases in national insurance contributions as the principal cause of job losses.
In response to these challenges, the MVT has called on the government to take decisive action. The trust is urging the government to legislate for the introduction of a grassroots levy, in which UK arenas and stadiums add £1 to all tickets to create a fund to support GMVs. Currently, the scheme is voluntary, and the MVT has criticised Live Nation, which controls 66% of the UK’s major event ticket market, for not taking the pledge.
The MVT has also called for the government to enshrine the agent of change policy in law, which would require new developments built next to existing live music venues to handle their own noise protection. Additionally, the trust has asked the government to continue working to reduce barriers to touring after Brexit and ensure that funds, including the Music Growth Scheme, support grassroots talent.
Under its own auspices, the MVT has pledged to expand its frontline venue support team and emergency hardship fund, which provide advice and financial assistance to prevent “avoidable closures.” The trust also plans to invest £2 million into programs designed to reduce operating costs, raise efficiency, and improve the experiences of artists and audiences.
Despite the challenges, the report also highlights some positive developments, including the expansion of the UK touring map. According to Live Nation UK & Ireland chair Deni Desmond, the company is now hosting events in 40% more towns across the UK compared to 2015, “showing that demand really is nationwide.”
As the music industry continues its post-pandemic recovery, the fate of the UK’s grassroots music venues remains a crucial issue. With the support of the government and the continued efforts of organisations like the MVT, these vital cultural spaces may yet emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.