Message from the Chair.
Succeeding David Willrich in November 2024, I took on the role of Chair at a moment of significant momentum. First, I extend sincere thanks to my predecessors, David Willrich and Terry Monkton, whose energy and vision laid the foundations for our current success.
Under the leadership of Ian Clappison and his dedicated team, Experience UK has achieved extraordinary results. Membership has grown by 101 %, the strongest expansion in our history, while careful cost management delivered a second consecutive surplus. These outcomes prove the organisation’ s resilience and the trust it commands across the creative sector.
Looking ahead, we will continue to diversify membership, develop new initiatives around museums, culture, and theme-park design, and ensure Experience UK remains the best, not merely the biggest, trade association in our field.
I am grateful to Ian and his team for their tireless work, and to my Executive Board colleagues for their counsel and support. The future of the UK Experience Economy is bright— and together we will make it even brighter.
RICHARD PARRY
CHAIRPERSON
During 2024 / 25 we:
• Hosted UK Pavilions at major global shows – Saudi Entertainment Expo, IAAPA Asia( Singapore), and IAAPA Europe( Amsterdam).
• Delivered InnovateX – The Experience Economy Forum, an ambitious new event that sold out its inaugural edition.
• Expanded Experience on Main Street, now recognised as a leading platform for place-making and regeneration dialogue.