Getting the best Brexit deal possible for UK advertising

The Advertising Association’s priority is protecting the future of our industry in a post-Brexit world. We have heard and consulted around sustained calls from the industry for clarity on the Government’s position towards advertising services, protecting data flows or the rights of EU workers. The AA has been lobbying hard, as well ensuring the very best information and advice was fed in at every stage of the decision-making process.

Advertising is a vital component of the UK economy, with adspend of more than £22bn in 2017 generating more than £132bn in value for GB plc. Not only that, but we are a giant in the global ad industry. More than a third of the top 20 UK ad agencies’ revenue comes from overseas business – that’s almost £300m – and growth in advertising exports is larger than that of the wider economy, with annual UK exports of advertising services worth £5.8bn, according to the latest figures. Moreover, the flow of talent goes both ways, and ensures that the UK has an outsized influence in the rest of the world, making certainty about workers’ rights a must-have around Brexit.

Stephen Woodford has been visible in media appearances specifically about the issue while other members of the team have been in ongoing communication with MPs as well as working closely with government officials and industry leaders.

In November, we issued the following statement with regards to Brexit, and the lack of clarity on services in general:

“[Brexit] is concerning for services – considering its huge role in the economy – and for advertising in particular given our £132bn contribution to UK GDP. March 29 2019 is drawing ever closer and the clock is ticking ever more loudly. The time for answers and a sensible way forward is now upon us.”

Currently the issue is still up in the air, but we continue to press on with its core issues, and for the preservation of the UK’s talent and skills post-Brexit.