The city is a major media centre, with approximately 1,650 companies providing employment for more than 13,000 people in the fields of print, publishing, news agencies, graphic design, television, radio, film, advertising, marketing, internet provision/ e-commerce and public relations.

Leeds’ media and communications industry is characterised by its breadth, rapid growth and willingness to embrace change. The sector includes major regional media groups, as well as a number of independent advertising agencies with national and international clients.

New media businesses, involved in internet provision and related activities, are expanding and Leeds is renowned as the largest new media city outside of London, particularly for business applications. These companies are connecting the wider region with growing national and international markets.

Major companies based in Leeds include; Orange Multimedia Operations, BBC North, Yorkshire Post Newspapers, Yorkshire Television, Radio Aire and Magic 828, Real Radio, TEAMtalk, Communisis One, Poulter Partners, Elmwood Design, Brilliant, Wanadoo Freeserve, Galaxy 105, Principles Agency, Sinclair Mason, Firstnet Services Ltd, Energis, , Corporate Document Services and Ptarmigan.

Media experts
The city’s two universities and six of its colleges of further and higher education have a wide variety of media-related courses.

Between 1998 and 2003 the number of people employed in the sector increased by 18%, making Leeds the third largest centre for media and communications outside of London.

Host Media Centre offers business incubation and training opportunities for local people. The centre provides managed workspace units for rent and is fully equipped with audio, video and multimedia training and production facilities.

Business development
The region’s screen media industry is promoted through Screen Yorkshire, set up to help create employment within the sector and champion the vibrant creativity of the region.

Leeds Media is a partnership of media companies in the city (supported by Leeds City Council), which works to develop and promote the city’s media sector.

The £5 million Round Foundry Media Centre opened in October 2003 and provides a high specification, serviced office environment for new media businesses.