Home Cultural Consumption Shifts Amid Eased Lockdowns: An Examination of Changing Trends in Personal Entertainment Preferences
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK witnessed a significant surge in digital content consumption across various creative sectors such as film, music, TV, video games, publishing, theatre, and digital art. This transformation, driven by a combination of pandemic-induced restrictions and ongoing technological trends, has left a lasting impact on the way audiences engage with these industries.
A six-week study conducted by the Creative PEC, Intellectual Property Office (IPO), and Audience Net from April-May 2020 aimed to understand this shift in consumer behaviour during the lockdown. The findings reveal that while traditional TV viewing declined, overall screen time increased due to streaming services and online video platforms. Usage of apps like TikTok rose sharply among younger audiences, indicating a broader migration towards digital video content [1][3].
In the music industry, increased online consumption was observed as live events were cancelled, with users turning to streaming platforms and digital music experiences. Although specific UK music streaming stats are not detailed here, global trends suggest that the UK followed a similar pattern [1].
The video games sector experienced a notable rise in engagement, driven by more time spent indoors and social restrictions. This trend continued post-lockdown, especially among younger demographics accustomed to online platforms [1].
In the publishing sector, the consumption of digital books and other content increased as people sought home-based leisure activities. This trend aligns with the general rising usage of home media consumption during the pandemic [5].
With physical venues closed, digital theatre performances and digital art experiences became more prominent. The shift towards online cultural consumption not only stimulated new modes of access and participation but also supported the creative industries despite lockdown constraints [4].
A policy brief suggests three ways to support growth in the creative industries, outlining recommendations for transitioning to more sustainable theatre production and setting out areas for possible policy action in Skills, Jobs, and Education for authors' earnings in the UK [7].
The UK television production sector, one of Britain's leading creative export sectors, continues to face pressures to consolidate [8]. Meanwhile, the policy briefing examines international trade in the UK creative industries, providing a comprehensive analysis of audiences and workforce using census data [2].
As we move beyond the immediate lockdown period, it is clear that the accelerated adoption of digital content consumption persists, particularly among younger demographics. The UK’s creative industries have undergone a rapid digital transformation, and these changes in consumption patterns are expected to endure [1][3].
References:
- Creative Industries Federation
- Policy Brief: International Trade in the UK Creative Industries
- AudienceNet
- Policy Brief: Transitioning to More Sustainable Theatre Production
- The Bookseller
- Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre
- Policy Brief: Supporting Growth in the Creative Industries
- Policy Brief: Television Production, International Trade, and Pressures to Consolidate
- The surge in digital content consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of innovation in the arts, as traditional methods of engagement shift towards digital platforms.
- The rise in online video content, driven by streaming services and apps like TikTok, showcases the creative skills that are increasingly in demand in the digital era.
- The impact of the pandemic on the music industry has demonstrated the crucial role of policies that support and sustain the industries, particularly in areas like education and jobs.
- As the consumption of digital books and content increases, the publishing industry is encountering new opportunities for growth and expansion, including in the home-and-garden sector.
- The transformation of theatre and digital art experiences has opened up new avenues for cultural engagement, fostering a more inclusive and accessible art landscape.
- The analysis of census data reveals internationalisation trends in the UK creative industries, providing valuable insights into audience and workforce patterns.
- In an era of rapid technological change, creative clusters and heritage become vital resources for the sustainability and competitiveness of the UK's creative industries.
- The strategic approach to skill-building and talent acquisition plays a significant role in driving innovation and growth within the creative industries, including the food-and-drink and lifestyle sectors.
- The digital transformation of the UK's creative industries is not merely a temporary response to the pandemic but a long-lasting shift in consumer behavior and lifestyle, particularly among younger demographics.
- As international trade patterns evolve, a comprehensive understanding of the data and trends within the UK creative industries will be instrumental in maintaining and enhancing their competitive edge.
- The ongoing transformation of the UK's creative industries offers opportunities for innovation and growth in various sectors, from cooking and food-and-drink to home-and-garden and lifestyle, compelling us to embrace creative digital strategies and reimagine traditional practices.
