The first-ever South by Southwest® (SXSW®) London has concluded, drawing widespread praise from industry leaders and community members alike. Over six days (June 2-7), the festival transformed Shoreditch into a vibrant hub where business, technology, and culture converged, welcoming 20,505 pass-holders from 77 countries and over 50 different industries.
The festival's unique blend of conference, screen, music, and interdisciplinary arts programs attracted attendees from across the globe, with strong representation from the USA, Netherlands, Germany, and France, among others. Advertising, music, technology, and media sectors showed the highest attendance, underscoring the event's broad appeal.
Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, lauded the festival, stating, "SXSW London has bought creativity, innovation and excitement to venues across Shoreditch... It has kicked off the biggest ever month for business and investment in London."
Ayesha Qureshi MBE, who played a crucial role in the London 2012 Olympics, drew a compelling parallel. She commented that "Just like the Olympics, SXSW London has sown the seed that it can be a catalytic event for the UK." Qureshi highlighted the festival's immediate positive economic impact on East London, noting an "exponential increase in footfall" for local businesses.
Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, praised the event for "show[ing] what’s possible when passionate voices from across the creative industries are brought together." Hackney Council's Miguel Campbell-Lewis emphasized the long-term commitment SXSW London has made to Shoreditch, bringing "new energy, attention, and opportunity" to grassroots venues crucial for nurturing emerging talent.
Max Alexander, CEO of SXSW London, expressed his delight with the inaugural event. "Our ambition over the coming years is for SXSW London to establish itself as a critical part of the economic, intellectual and artistic capital of this great city. We’re delighted with the first steps towards that," he said. The festival concluded with the premiere of LIFE OF CHUCK and the Grand Jury Prize win for Cactus Pears in the film category, alongside final music performances from Idris Elba, Új Bála, and J Staxx.
