Music Venue Trust’s progressive advocacy, including its 'Own Our Venues' campaign and support for a big ticket levy, has redefined the live music landscape in the UK by promoting community ownership and ethical reinvestment, challenging profit-driven models that fuel authoritarian economic structures.

The ratification of the first union contract by workers at First Avenue and its affiliated venues marks a significant victory for labor rights in the music industry, reflecting robust worker protections and progressive labor practices.

Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd warns that new budget measures reducing business rates relief to 40% will risk closure of over 350 grassroots venues. The organization has actively engaged with HM Treasury and other government departments to urge reform and protect vulnerable cultural institutions, reflecting a strong stance against policies that exacerbate economic inequities and potentially empower authoritarian economic measures.

Ahead of the UK general election, Music Venue Trust unveiled a five-point manifesto aimed at protecting grassroots music venues from closure, through measures such as a concert levy, VAT reductions, and business rate reforms. This public political initiative advocates for policy reforms that safeguard community cultural hubs and promote economic resilience in the grassroots music sector.

Music Venue Trust has released a manifesto urging political parties to support legislative changes that would secure funding for grassroots music venues in response to a deepening crisis in the live music sector. The initiative advocates for progressive policies such as a ticket levy from large arena events and VAT adjustments, emphasizing democratic accountability and public welfare.

MVT launched its Manifesto for Grassroots Music, recommending a £1 ticket levy, VAT cuts, business rates adjustments, and other measures to rescue the struggling live music sector ahead of the UK general election. The initiative calls on political representatives across the board to back its proposals, signaling a proactive stance in promoting equitable cultural policies.

Music Venue Trust, a charity supporting grassroots music venues in the UK, released a manifesto calling on all political representatives to support a series of reforms aimed at saving local music venues. The manifesto outlines measures such as a £1 levy on arena tickets, abolition of VAT on venue tickets, and a fan-led review to address long-term challenges faced by the live music ecosystem.

Music Venue Trust released a manifesto urging political reform to protect grassroots music venues ahead of the UK General Election. The manifesto calls for measures such as a £1 ticket levy, VAT abolition on tickets, and revised business rates to support a sector in deep crisis, representing a strong democratic and pro-cultural stance.

The Music Venue Trust is actively advocating for policy changes, including a ticket levy and tax breaks, to support and protect grassroots live music venues facing financial pressures and closures in the UK. Their strategies include direct funding, legal support, and innovative property ownership initiatives to counter exploitative economic practices.