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UK independent producers will for the first time have a major presence at this year's Mipcom in Cannes - one of the world's largest TV and audiovisual markets, with a UK pavilion housing up to 35 companies under one banner.
The UK pavilion has been organised by Pact, the trade body for independent TV and film producers and has been funded by a partnership of industry stakeholders from across the UK. The launch of the Pavilion represents the culmination of a yearlong fund raising campaign undertaken by Pact with the support of Government body UK Trade and Investment.
The Pavilion, which will be situated in the new Espace Lerins of the Palais des Festivals, will provide 108 square metres of meeting space and facilities for companies from across the UK, many new to export, using a cutting-edge digital marketing system.
 The other partners in the Pavilion are:
- Creative London
- Scottish Development International
- Northern Ireland Film and Television Commission
- International Business Wales
- North West Vision
- South West Screen
- South East Media Network
The appetite for British television abroad remains strong, as proved by the 2005 TV export figures collated independently for Pact by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). Last year total revenue from the exploitation of UK TV programmes internationally reached £632m. This represents an impressive increase of 21%, up from £524m in 2004.
"UK programme makers must keep adapting their ideas to keep pace with changing audiences" - Trade Minister
Mipcom, which will take place in Cannes from 9-13 October, 2006 is a key event for buyers of UK content. Last year the market was attended by 12,000 TV professionals, from 93 countries, while its sister event MipTV, which takes place in Cannes during April, attracts a similar profile of attendees.
According to John McVay, chief executive of Pact, through the Pavilion, UK Indies will gain increased access to buyers and distributors, opening the way for them to further realise the value of their rights through programme sales and co-productions.
 McVay said; "Programming from the UK continues to be hugely popular overseas and there is already excitement and expectation around this initiative within the industry. We look forward to the Pavilion becoming a regular fixture at Mipcom, and its sister market MipTV."
The UK television industry is at the cutting edge of programme making with shows like Who Wants to be a Millionaire and The Weakest Link having success all over the world.
UK Trade Minister Ian McCartney said "The emergence of new international markets means UK programme makers must keep adapting their ideas to keep pace with changing audiences. It is crucial this happens as a thriving UK television industry can be a real boost to the economy helping to create new jobs. I am delighted that UK talent can now be even better showcased to international audiences with this new pavilion."
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