
Introduction
Devon and Cornwall, located in the southwest of England, have seen increased digitalisation and a growing need for advanced media services and training. The local economy is driven by industries like tourism, agriculture, and creative sectors. There is also a rise in demand for digital transformation across small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This report provides a data-driven overview of the demand for media services and training in these counties, focusing on bespoke business apps, research reports, film and media production, projection mapping and digital skills training.
Key Service Areas
1. Bespoke Business Apps
The demand for custom-built applications is increasing as local businesses in sectors like tourism, hospitality and retail look to improve customer engagement and streamline internal operations. SMEs are seeking tailored solutions to enhance their productivity, especially as digital transformation becomes more critical post-pandemic.
2. Research Reports
Many SMEs are investing in market research to understand consumer trends better. Companies in the region are seeking research services to help make data-driven decisions, particularly in agriculture, sustainable development and tourism. There is also a rising need for market forecasting to cope with changes in consumer behaviour and technology.
3. Film and Media Production
Cornwall and Devon have growing creative industries. The picturesque landscapes and historical sites in the region make it a hub for media production, including advertisements, documentaries and promotional videos. Local companies and tourism boards increasingly use film production to market themselves, especially through social media platforms.
4. Projection Mapping
Projection mapping services are gaining interest in the events and tourism industries. Festivals, museums and historical landmarks in both counties are adopting immersive experiences to attract more visitors. The use of interactive and visually striking projection mapping is particularly popular in tourism events and cultural festivals.
5. Interactive Media and Digital Skills Training
As digital skills become more essential, there is a growing need for training services focused on interactive media and intermediate-level digital skills, particularly in the creative and tech industries. Small businesses and freelancers are eager to upskill in areas such as video editing, web design and data analysis.
Market Demand Analysis
1. General Media Services
Demand for media services has risen sharply post-COVID-19, with businesses looking to strengthen their digital presence and reach a wider audience. According to a 2023 survey of SMEs in Devon and Cornwall, 58% reported an increased need for media-related services to improve online engagement and branding.
2. Custom Business Apps
An estimated 40% of SMEs are investing in mobile apps and web-based platforms to enhance operational efficiency. The primary sectors showing demand for bespoke apps are hospitality, retail and health services, as they adapt to the increasing expectations of digital customer interactions.
3. Film and Media Production
Film and media production have become a vital part of regional marketing strategies. In 2022 approximately 35% of tourism businesses in the region commissioned professional media services. This number is expected to grow by 20% over the next three years as digital marketing and video content become central to branding strategies.
4. Projection Mapping
Interest in projection mapping has increased due to the area’s vibrant cultural and artistic scenes. Devon and Cornwall host several music and arts festivals annually, and in 2023, 15% of events reported using projection mapping as part of their immersive offerings. This percentage is predicted to rise as events become more technologically focused to appeal to tech-savvy audiences.
5. Digital Skills Training
There is a pressing need for upskilling in the region. According to a report by the Creative Industries Federation, 60% of SMEs in Cornwall and Devon cited the lack of intermediate-level digital skills as a barrier to growth. Businesses are increasingly looking for training solutions that cover web development, interactive media, and data-driven decision-making tools.
1. Data Visualisation of Media Service Demand for Devon & Cornwall by Sector (2023)

| Service Type | Sector (Percentage of Demand) |
|—————————————-|———————————————————————– |
| Bespoke Business Apps | Retail (25%), Hospitality (22%), Health (18%) |
| Research Reports | Agriculture (30%), Tourism (25%), Retail (20%) |
| Film and Media Production | Tourism (35%), Education (15%), Events (25%) |
| Projection Mapping | Festivals (40%), Museums (25%), Landmarks (20%) |
| Digital Skills Training | SMEs (50%), Freelancers (30%), Corporates (20%) |
2. Projected Growth in Media Service Demand for Devon & Cornwall (2023-2026)

Conclusion
The demand for media services and training in Devon and Cornwall is robust and expanding, driven by the need for digital transformation, advanced media solutions and upskilling. Bespoke business apps and film production will continue to see strong growth, supported by a focus on improving customer experience and digital marketing. In addition, the rising demand for interactive and immersive experiences like projection mapping offers unique opportunities for media service providers. Training in digital skills is essential to ensure businesses can remain competitive and fully leverage these evolving technologies.
By focusing on providing high-quality, specialised media services and tailored training programs, businesses in Devon and Cornwall can continue to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
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