Channel 4 Posts Record-Breaking Financials

Channel 4 delivered its highest-ever revenues in 2021, topping £1 billion ($1.2 billion) for the first time in its history, with a pre-tax surplus of £101 million ($120 million).

“2021 was an outstanding year of creative excellence, exceptional digital growth and record-breaking financial performance that saw Channel 4 over-deliver on its remit and successfully continue its transformation into a digital-first PSB,” said CEO Alex Mahon. “These results demonstrate that Channel 4’s business model delivers dynamic growth, revenue diversification and long-term sustainability. Financially, Channel 4 is in the most robust health it has ever been and our results have laid the foundations for ongoing investment, financial success and stability.”

Revenues for 2021 were up 25 percent to £1.2 billion ($1.4 billion), with 19 percent coming from digital advertising, a 40-percent gain. Channel 4’s Future4 strategy has set a 30 percent digital ad revenue target by 2025. In 2021, All 4 saw streaming views rise by more than 21 percent to over 1.5 billion.

The broadcaster invested £671 million in content in 2021, a 29 percent increase on 2020, with £492 million ($583 million) on originals. This year, Channel 4 says it will spend more than £700 million ($829.6 million) on content.

“Channel 4 is a vital national institution, and its remit is deeply embedded in everything we make, every day and on every platform,” continued Mahon. “It is about showcasing things that people might not agree with and that challenge perceptions. It’s about celebrating the rich diversity not only of all our communities across the U.K., but also their diversity of thought and opinion.”

Channel 4 Chair Sir Ian Cheshire added, “Our exceptional financial performance demonstrates Channel 4’s long-term sustainability and, through its Future4 strategy, it will play a major and unique role in strengthening and leveling up the creative industries and creating new jobs and opportunities for young people across the U.K.”