PLASA launches #WeMakeEvents campaign

PLASA, (the Professional Lighting and Sound Association) has announced the launch #WeMakeEvents, a new campaign with the aim of amplifying the voice of the event and  entertainment technology industry and gaining meaningful government support. The campaign includes a video highlighting the vital role of supply chain companies, along with the freelance community, to the live events industry and the devastating impact of the pandemic upon the sector. The association is calling on professionals from across the industry to share the video on social media, give exposure to the events supply chain – which includes production and rental companies, manufacturers and freelancers – an raise awareness of the need for longer term financial support. In addition to sharing the video, PLASA has published two infographics illustrating the complexity of the live events supply chain and the typical arena show – which requires an average of 443 professionals spanning design, planning, preparation, warehousing, and venue staff. The graphics also show how valuable the sector is, collectively delivering £100bn to the UK economy. PLASA is urging industry professionals to add their name to the campaign, and to send a letter to their local MP using the customisable letter samples created by a collective of industry associations including PLASA, ABTT, PSA, SOLT and UK Theatre. PLASA’s managing director Peter Heath commented: “We all know that the events industry has been devastated due to Covid-19, and we expect that the road to recovery will be a long one. PLASA is part of an incredibly robust community and it’s times like this we have seen us all working together. “Through this campaign we are trying to boost awareness of the massively diverse and talented supply chain, in order to get the financial support and recognition needed. We really need everyone to get involved and share our new campaign and video with all those you know.”