Continuing our partnership with UK Theatre and Society of London Theatre, Canned Wine Group had the honour of sponsoring the 2025 Theatre Conference, a dynamic gathering of theatre professionals, creatives, and industry leaders at Southbank Centre. The day was filled with powerful conversations, inspiring insights, and a shared commitment to the future of theatre.
As proud supporters of the arts, we were thrilled to be part of an event that not only celebrated creativity but also tackled the pressing issues facing the industry today.
Why Theatre? Why Now?
Theatre has always been a space for bold expression and community connection – values we hold close at Canned Wine Group. In a world that’s constantly evolving, the stage remains a place where voices are heard, stories are shared, and boundaries are pushed. We’re proud to support an event that uplifts emerging talent and fosters dialogue across generations and cultures.
Collaboration at the Core
This year’s main theme was collaboration—the lifeblood of theatre. From production and tech to operations, funding, and writing, every corner of the theatre ecosystem relies on seamless teamwork. The conference highlighted how this interconnectedness is both a strength and a necessity, especially in times of uncertainty.
The State of the Industry: Growth Amidst Risk
While the arts sector is growing faster than average, a recent UK Theatre report shared during the conference painted a sobering picture:
- One-third of venues reported a deficit in the past year
- 40% of venues are at risk of closure without significant investment
These figures underscore the urgent need for sustainable funding models and innovative revenue streams. One area of opportunity? Food and beverage – a critical income source for many venues. As a brand rooted in hospitality, we’re passionate about helping theatres leverage F&B creatively and responsibly to support their missions.
Making the Business Case for Sustainability
Another key discussion focused on sustainability in theatre – not just as a moral imperative, but as a smart business strategy. One panel explored how responsible practices can:
- Appeal to audiences demanding more robust sustainable offerings
- Reduce operational costs
- Attract investment and top talent
- Position venues as industry leaders
Real-world case studies showed how simple changes (as simple as turning off fridges when not in use) can lead to meaningful energy savings. It was a powerful reminder that small shifts can have a big impact.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Theatre Conference left us inspired and energised. It reaffirmed our belief that the arts are not only vital to culture but also ripe with potential for innovation and resilience. We’re proud to support this industry and look forward to continuing the conversation around sustainability, collaboration, and creative growth.
To everyone who stopped by our stand or for a toast – thank you. Let’s keep raising a can to the future of theatre.
