The Struggles of Grassroots Music Venues: A Dying Art?

Grassroots Venues: Heart and Soul of the Music Scene

Small music venues have long been cherished as the incubators for burgeoning talent in the UK's vibrant music landscape. These intimate spaces, where artists like Ed Sheeran and Olivia Dean honed their craft, offer a unique connection between performers and their audiences. However, recent reports reveal a sobering reality: more than half of these venues, a staggering 53%, failed to turn a profit in the last year, as indicated by the annual report from Music Venue Trust (MVT).

“It's harder to sell tickets,” laments Mark Davyd, MVT CEO, reflecting widespread concerns among venue owners.

The Economic Landscape

The pandemic was a brutal turn for many. In 2025 alone, we witnessed the closure of thirty cherished venues, including iconic spaces like Zanzibar in Liverpool and The Shed in Leicester, which have both played crucial roles in nurturing talent. The industry lost approximately 6,000 jobs, a seismic shift that has left a significant void.

Good News Amidst the Gloom

However, not all the news is bleak. Attendance at grassroots gigs increased by 13% in 2025, with 21 million people flocking to shows—a heartening indication that the appetite for live music still thrives. Ticket prices barely saw a rise, going from £11.48 to £11.56, illustrating that fans remain committed despite the economic climate.

“It's definite progress compared to every other year since covid,” says Davyd, echoing a collective sigh of relief within the community.

Challenges and Innovations

Yet, the struggle is palpable. Financial pressures continue to mount, with rising National Insurance payments adding an estimated £15 million to the sector's wage bill. The average profit margin for grassroots venues now hovers at a critically low 2.5%, trapping owners in a precarious financial position. Many are forced to report profits that don't account for unpaid wages, illustrating a stark reality that reveals the cracks in the economic model.

Kathryn McShane, director of the Black Box in Belfast, shares her perspective: “Selling a £25 ticket becomes harder when there are other costs to consider.” Her venue, which hosted acts like Gruff Rhys and Throwing Muses, also grapples with the sustainability of bringing artists over from Great Britain, a burden amplified by increased travel costs.

Community Support: A Call to Action

In an inspiring example of resilience, McShane started hosting corporate events during the day to offset losses. It's a strategy that not only supports her venue but also enriches the local community. “If we look at sports, it's expected that large teams give back. Arts and music should be no different,” she advocates.

A Possible Solution

The MVT has proposed a £1 levy on tickets for arena shows with over 5,000 capacity, expected to raise up to £25 million annually for grassroots venues. This initiative has garnered support from major artists, including Pulp and Coldplay, and even governmental endorsements. While the rollout has seen hurdles, it represents a crucial step towards revitalization.

“We view this as a research and development activity, and it needs to be respected as that by government,” Davyd asserts, encapsulating the need for institutional support.

Looking Ahead

In conclusion, the future of grassroots music venues remains uncertain, balancing precariously between an energizing increase in attendance and the ominous threat of closure. As our local music scene continues to evolve, I am both hopeful for innovation and concerned for the sustainability of these venues. Supporting grassroots music isn't merely about preserving a nostalgic past; it's a necessary investment in our cultural future.

Join the Conversation

Have thoughts on how we can better support grassroots venues? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!