BBC boosts Greater Manchester economy by £450m, broadcaster says

The BBC contributed £450m to Greater Manchester’s economy in 2024-25 and supported more than 5,000 jobs, according to a new report.

The figures have been released as part of the BBC’s Made Of Greater Manchester campaign, marking 15 years since the BBC moved key departments to Media City in Salford.

The report by BBC economists said BBC activity accounted for 39% of the city region’s audiovisual production and broadcasting sector and the corporation employed more than 3,000 people.

However, it warned that future investment could be affected by financial pressures facing public service broadcasters and wider challenges in the production sector.

Continued growth depended on a sustainable long-term funding settlement, it added.

The BBC’s Economic Impact In Greater Manchester report described the BBC as a “strategic anchor” for the creative industries and said 422 apprentices had been employed in Salford over five years.