Written by Kianna Best on May 19, 2025. Posted in General Interest

EUFCN and LMGI Forge Global Alliance to Boost Location Collaboration and Innovation

In a landmark move during Cannes 2025, the European Film Commissions Network (EUFCN) and the Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote collaboration across borders. The agreement aims to elevate professional standards in location management, foster sustainable practices, and enhance global access to Europe’s diverse filming locales—paving the way for richer creative partnerships and streamlined international productions.

In a significant step toward reinforcing global collaboration within the film and television industry, the European Film Commissions Network (EUFCN) and the Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the prestigious Marché du Film at the Cannes Film Festival on May 18, 2025.

The agreement, inked by EUFCN President Adrian A. Mitchell and LMGI President John Rakich, establishes a formal framework of cooperation between two of the industry’s most influential organizations. Together, they represent a powerful cross-section of the international production ecosystem, linking over 100 film commissions across 33 European countries with an expansive network of location professionals working across five continents.

At its core, the MoU underscores a shared vision: to facilitate the global exchange of expertise, expand professional development opportunities, and ensure better accessibility to resources that are essential for world-class location management. For an industry increasingly reliant on seamless international coordination and visually distinctive storytelling, the partnership couldn’t be more timely.

"The signing of this MoU between the LMGI and EUFCN at Cannes represents a meaningful step forward in fostering international collaboration," comments LMGI president John Rakich. "By aligning our efforts, we aim to strengthen the connection between location professionals and European  film commissions, promoting excellence, sustainability, and innovation in global location management."

The collaboration aims to spotlight Europe’s vast and varied landscapes—from historic castles and alpine vistas to contemporary urban skylines—as a magnet for international productions. But beyond aesthetics, both organisations are emphasising professional integrity, sustainability, and innovation as central tenets of their alliance.

Mitchell echoed this sentiment with an impassioned endorsement of the initiative. “Film commissions love their (great) locations, and location scouts and managers love a good location. How could this relationship not be a hit?” he remarked. “There is great potential in promotion, professionalism and facilitation that benefits all. The journey is here, now.”

While the full implementation roadmap is still unfolding, early goals include collaborative training programs, best-practice exchanges, sustainability initiatives, and co-hosted industry events. These efforts are expected to streamline the logistical and creative challenges associated with cross-border filming, which continues to grow as a staple of high-end television and feature film production.

The MoU also arrives at a pivotal moment in the entertainment industry’s evolution. With increasing pressure to reduce environmental footprints and maximise cultural authenticity, location managers and film commissions are being called upon to deliver both logistical efficiency and storytelling depth. This partnership intends to answer that call with a coordinated, cross-disciplinary approach.

EUFCN and LMGI’s collaboration is more than symbolic; it represents a strategic alignment that leverages both organizations’ strengths. The EUFCN, with its deep-rooted network of public institutions and regional authorities, offers unparalleled local access and regulatory insight. Meanwhile, the LMGI brings a boots-on-the-ground perspective honed from decades of managing complex productions across global terrains.

For film and television producers, the partnership offers a clearer, more collaborative pathway to accessing Europe’s rich filming opportunities. For policymakers and cultural institutions, it reinforces the economic and creative value of supporting international productions. And for location professionals, it promises new tools, shared expertise, and greater visibility in a rapidly evolving industry.

As the cameras continue to roll on locations across Europe and beyond, this MoU signals a bold step forward—one that’s set to redefine how stories are sourced, shaped, and brought to life through the power of place.

Images courtesy of  EUFCN