MIP London debuts with strong attendance, sets sights on 2026 return

MIP London debuts with strong attendance, sets sights on 2026 return

Some 2,800 delegates from over 80 countries descended upon the capital

Bela Bajaria with David Beckham

MUMBAI:  The inaugural MIP London market  concluded its five-day run on 27 February  with metrics that suggest a respectable, if not quite revolutionary, entry into the crowded conference calendar. Some 2,800 delegates from over 80 countries descended upon the capital for what organisers hope will become a fixture in the global television industry's peripatetic schedule.

The event, which ran from 23-27 February, appears to have established itself as a new fixture in the global television industry calendar, with the IET London and The Savoy already confirmed as venues for 2026.

"MIP London's debut exceeded expectations. This is year one of a long-term commitment and we will be back in London next year," said MIP London and MIPCOM Cannes director Lucy Smith. "This was new, a new format, bringing in new people, and it really feels that MIP London has found its place in this busy week."

European delegates comprised the largest contingent, followed by North Americans, with significant representation from Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Türkiye. More than 70 companies established meeting spaces, including country pavilions from Belgium, China, France, Korea and Spain.

The event featured an extensive programme of international screenings, insight presentations, and industry matchmaking sessions. Notable highlights included presentations from YouTube and a headline conversation between Netflix's chief content officer Bela Bajaria and David Beckham.

Attendees reflected the evolving media landscape, with traditional buyers and sales executives joined by producers, content creators, and representatives from digital-first companies and streaming platforms, including Fast,  AVOD and CTV players.

Smith emphasised that the new event was designed to complement existing industry gatherings. "Our plan has always been to complement existing events, and I thank everyone who came and engaged with the market. We will listen intently to every bit of feedback to evolve MIP London for 2026 and beyond, and to deliver what the international industry says it needs."

The 41st edition of MIPCOM  Cannes, MIP London’s established sister event, will take place from 13-16 October 2025, preceded by MIPJunior on 11-12 October.