The BBC has published its “Commissioning Supply Report” for the financial year 2023/24, highlighting its dedication to fostering UK-made content while noting a decrease in original programming sourced from qualified independent producers. The report shows that the BBC commissioned 81% of its content from UK producers, allocating 61% of its budget to productions outside of London, which aligns with its regulatory goals to boost regional content creation.
Throughout various television genres—including drama, documentaries, and entertainment—the BBC commissioned a total of 2,037 hours of first-run original programming, 1,399 hours of which, or 69%, were produced by qualifying independent companies. This figure marks a decline from 77% compared to the previous year, though it still surpasses the BBC’s requirement of 25%. The BBC attributed this reduction to significant structural challenges impacting the independent production landscape.
Charlotte Moore, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, emphasized the organization’s position as the largest single investor in UK original content, underscoring its role in supporting the creative economy and reflecting diverse perspectives on screen. She confirmed the BBC’s dedication to collaborating with independent producers, regardless of size, despite the challenging marketplace.
The report also acknowledges an increase in suppliers from the Nations and Regions, indicating efforts to diversify content sources. BBC Studios, the corporation’s commercial production division, contributed 27% of the eligible content, while the remaining percentage came from non-qualifying independents and in-house productions.
Factors contributing to the decline in commissions from qualifying independent producers include rising costs, industry-wide inflation, and consolidation within the production market, which disproportionately affects smaller firms.
Despite these headwinds, the BBC remains committed to nurturing smaller and regional independent producers through targeted initiatives and investments in skills development. With 61% of its spending occurring outside London and a substantial 81% of air time dedicated to UK-based content, the BBC maintains a significant role in the UK creative industry, blending economic considerations with its editorial goals.
The report reflects a year of increased competition and financial constraints, yet it also reaffirms the BBC’s commitment to supporting authentic, diverse storytelling—a fundamental aspect of its public service mission and commercial strategy. This dedication offers a hopeful perspective for the future of UK content creation, emphasizing resilience amidst challenges.