Observed Signal · Jul 15, 2026 · Survey Release · Source: PocketGamer.biz · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
UK games workforce survey finds pride but low industry recommendation
The 2025 UK Games Industry Workforce Demographics Survey, published by Professor Mark Taylor in partnership with Ukie, analysed 1,610 responses collected between November 2025 and January 2026. Findings show an experienced workforce—97% had worked in games for more than a year—but reveal retention and diversity challenges: 22% lost a job in the past three years, 29% worked over 50 hours in at least one week, and only 38% would recommend the industry as a place to work despite 81% being proud to be part of it. The survey reports shifts in regional concentration, various diversity metrics, and lower career progression for ethnic minority respondents. Ukie's Raise The Game programme will develop an action plan and a dedicated fund in response.
The survey provides sector-specific workforce, diversity and regional employment data for the UK games industry—relevant to gaming as a media channel and to employers—but it is not a broad AdTech/MarTech platform policy or technical change.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- The 2025 UK Games Industry Workforce Demographics Survey was published by Professor Mark Taylor and commissioned/delivered in partnership with Ukie.
- The survey is based on 1,610 responses collected between November 2025 and January 2026.
- 97% of respondents had worked in games for more than one year; 11% are company owners or directors.
- 81% of respondents said they are proud to be part of the UK games industry, but only 38% would recommend the industry as a great place to work.
- Ukie's Raise The Game programme will work with strategic partners to develop an action plan and a dedicated fund responding to the survey findings.
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