As a national live music promoter and operator of grassroots venues, DHP Family is uniquely positioned to understand the challenges faced by small venues and the broader music ecosystem. We witness firsthand the vital role that grassroots venues play in nurturing emerging talent, supporting local economies, and enriching the cultural fabric of our communities.
The pressures on small operators are immense, from escalating costs in staffing, supplies, and business rates, to the challenges posed by VAT, PRS/PPL fees, and the squeeze being applied by the multinational corporate behemoths. These hurdles threaten not only the survival of grassroots venues but also the lifeblood of the entire live music ecosystem.
DHP Family is committed to finding and supporting sustainable solutions for grassroots music venues, both for our own spaces and for our peers in the industry. We welcome initiatives such as the voluntary ticket levy proposed by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee and supported by the government. We have already pioneered this approach as promoter of Enter Shikari’s last arena tour, where a portion of ticket sales was directed to support the grassroots fund. Building on this success, we are actively engaging with other artists and stakeholders to expand this model further.
While we believe the live music industry must take a leadership role in safeguarding grassroots venues, we also call on the government to provide meaningful support through fairer taxation and regulatory stability.
At DHP Family, we stand ready to collaborate with all our friends and partners to build a sustainable and vibrant future for live music. Grassroots music is not only the foundation of our industry but also a vital part of our cultural identity. Its preservation is a cause we will continue to champion.
