Empire Magazine, the world’s biggest film and entertainment brand, has unveiled a sign to celebrate this year’s Three Empire Awards and the importance of the film industry to London and the UK. It is estimated that approximately £1.6 billion was spent in the UK on feature films: this was a 13% increase on 2015 and the highest since records began in 1994. An estimated £1.2 billion was contributed by the film industry to London’s economy in 2016 with over 200 film productions made in the capital last year. The awards are voted for by fans.

Speaking about the huge contribution London makes to the film industry, Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London commented:

“The Three Empire Awards celebrate the best in cinematic achievement. From Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story – London’s filmmaking expertise is the envy of the world. The film industry contributes a great deal – both economically and culturally – to the life and soul of our capital.

 “I’m committed to building on our success as a world-renowned powerhouse of filmmaking, ensuring the capital continues to flourish and making London the best, and most inviting place for film production on the planet.”

The awards will take place on 19 March at Camden’s Roundhouse.