Amazon signs record film deal with UK's Shepperton Studios

Deal confirms UK's burgeoning status as a major global player in TV series and movie production

When complete, Shepperton Studios will be the second largest film studios in the world with 31 purpose-built stages. Photo: David Goddard

Amazon streaming service Prime Video on Wednesday announced a major “long-term” deal for exclusive use of new production facilities at studios near London, further boosting Britain's booming film industry.

The “landmark multimillion-pound … contract with Shepperton Studios” was for “original TV series and movie productions”, its owner Pinewood Group said in a statement.

On completion of the new facilities next year, Shepperton Studios will be the second largest in the world with 31 purpose-built stages, Pinewood Group chairman Paul Golding said.

“This … commitment to Shepperton supports our considerable investment in this fantastic studio,” he said.

Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said the Amazon deal represented a boost to the UK economy.

“The investment will drive growth and create jobs,” he added in the joint statement.

Britain's film industry has received a shot in the arm in recent years from streaming services such as Netflix and now Amazon Prime seeking sites for their own productions.

At the same time, the pandemic has triggered a surge in the streaming of films and television shows, also benefiting the likes of Disney+.

Shepperton Studios, located south of London, has also struck an agreement with Netflix.

“Shepperton has long been synonymous with top-tier television and movies and we're proud that it will be home to many Prime Video original productions in the years to come,” said Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon Studios.

Amazon Studios last year announced it was moving production of the second season of its Lord Of The Rings series to the UK from New Zealand.

It comes as US-owned entertainment groups Sky and Sunset Studios are in the process of building separate film and television studios close to London to help meet strong demand for streamed content.

In pictures: 12 inward investment films which started production in the UK in 2021