About PLASA

PLASA is the lead international membership body for those who supply technologies and services to the event and entertainment industries.

The Association works to ensure that each sector is fully represented and plays an active role in highlighting best practice and safe working conditions.

PLASA supports its members by providing advisory and support services across business, technical, safety and regulatory issues, as well as a range of membership benefits, events and training courses, including three industry-recognised certification and training programs for riggers and production technicians.

PLASA’s commercial divisions play a crucial role in supporting Association activities. Print and digital editions of LSi magazine are read by professionals in over 120 countries, while PLASA Show in London and regional Focus events provide businesses with the opportunity to showcase their technology and services.

The Association works actively with its members through its Membership Governing Body and specialist working groups. This continual collaboration creates opportunities for all members and shares knowledge, enabling businesses and individuals to grow personally and professionally, benefiting the wider industry.

Vision Statement

As the worldwide community for those who supply and service the entertainment and events markets, PLASA will develop, promote and support the members and our industry. We encourage ethical practices and a sustainable approach and continuously provide opportunities for our members to grow their business.

Championing the live sector

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the global media and entertainment market is still worth over $2 trillion – and is forecast to steadily grow for years to come. In the UK, the combined economic contribution of events, leisure, performing arts and TV & film totals £100 billion. Moreover, the UK’s entertainment technology industry alone is valued at £1.36 billion, and outdoor events are worth an estimated £30.4 billion.

Behind every live event is a complex supply chain, often involving hundreds of specialist professionals – 72% of which are freelance – from manufacturing and distribution to production design and stage crew. In fact, it can take over 400 individuals to put on a single arena concert! Not only that, despite the UK’s seasonal weather, outdoor events employ nearly 600,000 people.

In a regular year, music gigs in the UK are attended by 30 million fans, with a further 15 million travelling from across the world to watch one of the many iconic West End theatre shows. And with Live Nation reporting a record-breaking appetite for live events in the post-pandemic era, these numbers are expected to grow in the coming years.

PLASA and #WeMakeEvents continue to campaign for recognition and support to ensure our industry is equipped to create incredible experiences, long into the future.

Our History

PLASA emerged from the British Association of Discothèque Equipment Manufacturers (BADEM), who had formed in 1976 with the mandate to run an annual trade show.

They changed their name to the Professional Lighting & Sound Association (PLASA) in 1983, at a time of rapid technological advancement. A group of industry leaders identified the need for a collective trade body to help steer and sustain the rising reputation and growth of the entertainment technology industry and all those who work within it.

Throughout the past few decades PLASA has rolled with the times, supporting its members in a multitude of ways and setting the stage for internationally renowned trade exhibitions. PLASA continues to be the voice of a multi-faceted industry which is growing each year by supporting and championing pioneering professionals around the world.