Table of Contents
Netflix output decline
Netflix, faced a substantial setback in 2023 as it grappled with the repercussions of Hollywood strikes and a strategic shift in content creation. The company, which had consistently increased its original production over the past decade, released approximately 130 fewer films and TV shows, marking a 16% decline compared to the previous year. This downturn became more pronounced in the second half of the year, coinciding with protracted walkouts by actors’ and writers’ unions.
Strategy shift
The Hollywood strikes significantly impacted Netflix’s output, causing a decline of around 25% during the latter part of 2023. The streaming giant’s release slate in the final quarter of the year hit a five-year low, revealing the severity of the challenges it faced. These struggles are emblematic of the broader industry landscape, where streaming services like Amazon and Disney intensify competition.
In response to these challenges and a surge in interest rates affecting the cost of debt, Netflix opted for a strategic shift. The company deliberately reduced its original shows, instead focusing on licensing more content from competitors. This change reflects a commitment to prioritize quality over quantity, reshaping Netflix’s content strategy.
Pandemic impact
Conversely, Britain’s entertainment industry experienced substantial growth, reaching a record high of £11.9bn, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. The value of the UK music, video, and games markets has grown by 50% since 2019, demonstrating the remarkable resilience and growth of the industry despite pandemic-related challenges.
Digital services, led by streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney, and Spotify, played a pivotal role in this growth. Revenues for these services increased by over £800m in 2023, accounting for nearly 92% of the total industry revenues. Video emerged as the fastest-growing category, reclaiming its position as the largest sector, which was previously dominated by games for a decade.
The continuous growth of the entertainment business underscores the transformative impact of digital services and the enduring appeal of creative talent across movies, music, and games. This growth has been a consistent trend over the past 11 years, showcasing the industry’s ability to defy economic conditions and adapt to evolving consumer preferences.
Stay updated on all of the latest news by subscribing to the ITP Live newsletter below and by clicking the push notifications.