Written by Shona Smith on Oct 29, 2019. Posted in General Interest

Pinewood announce departure from Wales to focus on London growth

The announcement comes as the group concentrates on growth plans in London, following similar announcements to pull out of its Malaysia and Atlanta studios.

Pinewood Group announced it will end its agreement for the studio in Cardiff after discussions with the Welsh Government. The agreement covering sales and marketing as well as studio operation and management services will end on 31 March 2020.

Paul Golding, Chairman, Pinewood Group Limited said “Pinewood is known across the world as a leading-provider of studio space and the last decade has seen the value of film and television production in Wales more than double. Wales now has a robust and mature market, with the three main studios in Cardiff currently running at capacity. Our decision will enable us to concentrate on our growth plans, including our extensive expansion at Pinewood and Shepperton Studios”.

Pinewood plan to expand Shepperton Studios, to become the second largest studio in the world, as well as complete new stages at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire. The group also continue to explore expansion in other international markets.   

Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Lord Elis-Thomas said “We have worked closely with Pinewood throughout their time in Wales and make it a thriving and established location for filmmakers…We are proud of our association with Pinewood and over the last five years our vibrant creative industry has seen film and TV productions funded by Welsh Government – including those made by Pinewood and Bad Wolf – spending in excess of GBP100 million in Wales, creating over 2000 full time equivalent job years here and benefitting local supply chains and hundreds of businesses”. Recent productions to have shot in South Wales include His Dark Materials (pictured) and Brave New World.

Productions to have shot at the studio include Sherlock and Journey’s End and the announcement will have no impact on productions shooting at the studio.