LANDMARK GREATER MANCHESTER ANIMATION SURVEY RESULTS UNVEILED

Manchester Animation Festival recently lead a major survey exploring the scale and future of Greater Manchester’s animation, VFX, motion graphics, games cinematic and immersive media industries. The research, carried out with

MediaCity Immersive Technologies Innovation Hub with additional funding from BBC Children’s & Education and MediaCity provides the most detailed picture yet of the region’s animation ecosystem.

You can read the full report, which includes interviews with figures such as Ian Mackinnon from Mackinnon & Saunders and recent BAFTA Award winners One 6th and others from the sector below.

The results highlight a fast-growing sector. Combined company turnover has more than doubled in recent years, reaching £120.3 million, with 1,665 jobs recorded in 2025 and over 7,000 hours of content produced in the last two years. Studios in the region are working with global partners including the BBC, Disney, Netflix, Channel 4, ITV, Sky, Sony and Apple TV.

However, the report also highlights challenges, particularly for freelancers who make up and average of 54% of the workforce. Many reported declining job security and confidence about the future of the industry.

The findings will help inform conversations about how the region can better support animation talent, studios and freelancers in the years ahead. A series of recommendations have been put forward to Greater Manchester Combined Authority to this end.

Read the full report by clicking the link below.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL SURVEY HERE

https://www.manchesteranimationfestival.co.uk/gmas2026/