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 magazines LSi and LSA lead the market and 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.

Industry Overview

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the global media and entertainment market was worth $2 trillion. Music gigs were attended by 30 million per year in the UK, with a further 22 million travelling from across the world to watch West End theatre shows. All predictions were on the sector growing steadily for years to come.

Behind every live event is a complex supply chain involving hundreds of professionals, from manufacturing and distribution to production design and stage crew. However, when live events stopped in their tracks in March 2020, the supply chain stopped too. As the world slowly re-opens, the future of the events sector is uncertain.

As part of #WeMakeEvents, PLASA continues to lobby for urgent government support, without which we are at risk of losing huge numbers of valuable companies and individuals across the industry.

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.