Olsberg SPI to lead EAO incentives report

The European Audiovisual Observatory has commissioned a major economic study looking at the impact of film and TV incentives in Europe.

The new research will look at what models of audiovisual incentive schemes in Europe are the most effective.

Consultancy Olsberg SPI will undertake the analysis and lead the team for the report, including the UK’s Landman Economics.

The report will evaluate how fiscal incentives attract foreign investment, from Europe and the rest of the world, as well as looking at impact on state budgets, local production , employment, and wider economic and cultureal policy.

The project has extra funding from the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture.

The Observatory, part of the Council of Europe, has 40 member countries.

The study will be published in late 2014.

With this assessment the European Audiovisual Observatory is aiming to deepen the understanding across Europe of the use of incentives and the impact they can have on both inward investment and indigenous production,” said Observatory executive director Susanne Nikoltchev.

Olsberg SPI chairman Jonathan Olsberg [pictured] commented: “We have worked extensively in the fiscal incentives arena before but this study aims to provide a new depth of knowledge about how fiscal incentives in Europe can be most impactful. We look forward to consulting closely with the industry and policy-makers for this evaluation, and invitethose interested in providing input to contact our team.”

The Olsberg SPI team including Olsberg, Andrew Barnes and Leon Forde will attend the Berlinale and start consultations here.