Netflix Strikes Production Deal With UK-Based Shepperton Studios

In actuality, there are only two streaming behemoths in the form of Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Eben in this race, it is the former that has billions attached to its tag and is only aiming to get bigger.

According to a report in The Guardian, the service has struck an important deal to set up a permanent base at Shepperton Studios in London, UK. The company plans to spend more of its $13bn (£10.3bn) annual production budget in the UK.

Having made over 40 productions in the UK last year that include hit shows like The Crown, Sex Education and Outlaw King, the company has been searching for a long lease for an exclusive hub to ensure the boom in demand for studio space doesn’t hinder its plans to make TV shows and films without delays.

This deal with Shepperton Studios also means that Netflix will have exclusive access to most of the facilities at Shepperton’s west London studios, including its 14 sound stages, from October.

Paul Golding, the chief executive of Shepperton’s parent Pinewood, home to the James Bond and Star Wars franchises, said that the deal represented a huge boost to the UK’s status as a major destination for film and TV production.  “Netflix’s decision is a real vote of confidence in the UK film and TV industry,” he said. “It is all about confidence in the UK as a location for top quality productions.”

Netflix has significantly increased its European production slate this year, with 221 projects, including 153 originals with a budget of well over $1bn. This is a more than 50% increase over 2018’s slate.