Updates

More Than 21,000 B.C. Businesses Boosted by MPA Studios in 2022 Alone, New Data Shows

April 23, 2024

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, APRIL 22 – New data released today demonstrates the tremendous economic impact of the film, television and streaming industry for B.C. businesses, with the MPA Studios spending more than $1.67 billion on production-related goods and services in 2022 alone. From catering to construction supplies, accommodations, local rentals, transportation and more, MPA Studios supported 21,265 local businesses across the province.

Through the production of long-running television series, feature films, and world-class post-production, visual effects, and animation projects, the MPA Studios – including Disney, Netflix, Paramount, Sony, NBCUniversal and Warner Bros. Discovery (including HBO) – make substantial investments in British Columbia.

*All figures calculated in Canadian dollars*

QUOTES

Honourable Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

“The motion picture industry is more than just a source of entertainment; it is a powerhouse of economic activity that energizes our entire province. MPA Studios help put British Columbia on the map as a top global filming destination, providing essential opportunities for our local workforce and businesses. Our government is working collaboratively with this industry to ensure it continues to benefit all British Columbians and keeps our local economy thriving.”

Bob D’Eith, Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film

“I am excited to see how these major studio productions create opportunities for our local crew, performers and businesses. They are the biggest employers in our motion picture industry, with 97% of workers on their productions being from B.C. What a great opportunity to bring international attention to British Columbia, highlighting our unique culture and breathtaking landscapes.”

Honourable Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation

“British Columbia is the film capital of Canada with over 47,500 full-time jobs and close to 100,000 workers in the industry,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “By working with organizations like the MPA and building a competitive film jurisdiction, we are able to get B.C. on the big screen – and that’s great for our economy and the people of this province.”

Prem Gill, CEO, Creative BC

“Creative BC takes immense pride in our enduring partnerships with major studios, vital to this place known as British Columbia and its thriving motion picture industry. With up to 100,000 individuals working across the province, production spending bolsters local businesses, communities, and supports countless families. For four decades, these studios have shaped and fueled industry growth, consistently favouring British Columbia for projects. This partnership has built a global reputation for excellence, reflecting our shared history and commitment to innovation. We value our role as a trusted partner, delivering top-tier services to solidify B.C.’s position as the premier choice for international productions.”

Wendy Noss, President of the Motion Picture Association – Canada

“The MPA member studios are proud partners in B.C.’s creative economy,” said Wendy Noss, President of the Motion Picture Association – Canada. “For years, their substantial investments in movies, television and streaming series production have played an integral role in British Columbia’s development as a global centre of excellence for content made in B.C. and enjoyed by audiences around the world.”

ABOUT MPA-CANADA

The Motion Picture Association – Canada (MPA-Canada) is the voice and advocate of the major international producers and distributors of movies, television and streaming programming in Canada and is an affiliate of the Motion Picture Association, Inc. (MPA).

Through the production of long-running television series, feature films, and post-production, visual effects, and animation projects, the global studios we serve – including Disney, Netflix, Paramount, Sony, NBCUniversal and Warner Bros. Discovery (HBO) – make substantial investments in Canada.

On behalf of the MPA member studios, we work with governments and local industry partners to support initiatives that strengthen the film, television and streaming industry in Canada.

Follow us on X and check out The Credits for behind the scenes interviews with Canadian creatives.

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MEDIA CONTACT

Matthew Wilson

Communications Coordinator

(647) 624-8971

matthew_wilson@motionpictures.org