Specialist Asset Finance for Broadcast, Post-Production, Live Events and the Audio Visual Sector
The UK’s creative industries are renowned worldwide for their innovation, quality and storytelling. Behind every broadcast, film, or live event, there’s a complex network of technology, production expertise, and people who make it all happen. Whether it’s the next big streaming series, a large-scale festival, or an immersive digital installation, one constant remains — the need for the right equipment and technology.
At Gable Business Finance, we understand that creative businesses rely on specialist technology and flexible funding. Our asset finance for broadcast, post-production, live events, and the audio visual (AV) sector gives you access to the tools and tech you need — without putting pressure on your working capital. From cameras and lighting rigs to editing suites, mixing desks, and LED walls, we provide smart finance solutions that keep creative companies moving forward.
Why Creative Businesses Need Specialist Asset Finance
The UK’s media, film, and live events industries are fast-paced and constantly evolving. New production methods, immersive media, and audience experiences require ever-advancing equipment. However, these assets can be expensive to acquire outright — and technology often becomes outdated within just a few years.
Specialist asset finance offers a flexible, cost-effective way for creative organisations to:
- Spread the cost of high-value technology and equipment over time.
- Preserve working capital for day-to-day operations and creative projects.
- Stay competitive with the latest production technology.
- Access tax-efficient funding solutions tailored to their sector.
- Support cash flow by matching payments with revenue cycles or project timelines.
From start-ups in film post-production to established broadcast networks, our finance solutions are designed for the unique financial rhythms of creative businesses.
Finance Options for the Creative and AV Sectors
Finance Lease
A Finance Lease allows you to use essential broadcast or AV equipment immediately while spreading the cost through fixed monthly payments. At the end of the agreement, you can choose to extend the lease, return the asset, or upgrade to newer equipment.
- Perfect for: rapidly evolving technologies such as cameras, LED screens, or digital mixing desks.
- Advantages: low initial outlay, potential tax efficiency, flexible upgrade options.
- Example: A live events company leases a fleet of high-lumen projectors and LED walls for multiple tour contracts.
Hire Purchase
Hire Purchase allows you to spread payments over a fixed period, owning the equipment outright at the end of the term. It’s a simple and predictable option for creative businesses that want full ownership.
- Perfect for: film production companies investing in permanent in-house post-production equipment.
- Advantages: ownership at the end, predictable fixed repayments, asset appears on your balance sheet.
- Example: A television studio purchases new 4K cameras and editing stations through a 5-year Hire Purchase agreement.
Lease Rental
Lease Rental is ideal for companies seeking to upgrade equipment frequently without the long-term commitment of ownership. You rent the asset for a fixed period, with options to refresh or return equipment as technology changes.
- Perfect for: AV hire companies or live events suppliers with fast-evolving inventory needs.
- Advantages: no ownership risk, easy equipment refresh, preserves cash flow.
- Example: An AV rental company leases a rotating inventory of sound desks and digital control systems for event clients.
Operating Lease
An Operating Lease functions much like a long-term rental — giving you access to high-value equipment for a fixed term without appearing as a liability on your balance sheet. Ideal for assets that quickly depreciate in value.
- Perfect for: broadcast and film production studios using short-lifecycle technology.
- Advantages: off-balance-sheet financing, cost-effective for short-term use, flexible upgrades.
- Example: A broadcaster uses an Operating Lease for a 3-year contract on a mobile production van equipped with motion control rigs.
Asset Refinance
Asset Refinance allows creative businesses to unlock the value of existing owned equipment. By refinancing your cameras, sound systems, or production gear, you can raise capital for new projects or cash flow support.
- Perfect for: studios or event production companies with existing assets but requiring capital.
- Advantages: improves liquidity, retains use of assets, can consolidate other debts.
- Example: A post-production company refinances its editing suites to fund expansion into new digital animation services.
Commercial Loans
Commercial Loans offer a flexible, unsecured or secured funding option for broader business needs beyond specific equipment purchases. They can be used to fund working capital, marketing, or expansion.
- Perfect for: production companies scaling up operations or managing seasonal cash flow.
- Advantages: flexible terms, fixed or variable rates, tailored repayment structures.
- Example: An independent film studio takes a commercial loan to finance pre-production on a new documentary series.
Industries We Support
Broadcast Companies
From television networks to online streaming studios, broadcast companies require high-end cameras, studio lighting, transmission equipment, and editing technology. Gable Business Finance provides tailored asset finance for OB trucks, production switchers, and broadcast-grade audio consoles.
Post-Production Businesses
Post-production houses depend on precision editing suites, colour grading stations, and storage servers. Our finance options support upgrades to industry-leading software and hardware, ensuring seamless project delivery for clients in film, advertising, and television.
The Live Events Sector
Whether it’s concerts, exhibitions, theatre productions, or sporting events, the live events industry depends on AV innovation. We finance LED video walls, sound systems, lighting rigs, stage infrastructure, and transport logistics for touring operations.
Audio Visual (AV) Companies
AV installation and integration companies require continuous investment in modern presentation and display technologies. Gable supports finance for everything from control systems and projectors to immersive XR installations and 3D audio solutions.
Cinema and Movie Theatre Sector
As the cinema experience evolves, venues are upgrading projection, sound, and seating technology. Finance can help theatres enhance the viewer experience with laser projection, Dolby Atmos systems, and premium screen installations without the heavy upfront cost.
AV Installation and Integration
Installers and integrators delivering technology solutions to corporate clients, educational institutions, or government contracts can use asset finance to manage large-scale deployments. Gable’s flexible structures support cash flow during project delivery.
Education Sector
Schools, colleges, and universities are investing in broadcast, AV, and digital technologies to enhance learning and hybrid delivery. Finance options make it easier to roll out lecture capture systems, virtual learning tools, and digital studios.
Churches and Places of Worship
Faith-based organisations increasingly rely on modern AV equipment for services, live streaming, and community engagement. We offer bespoke finance for projectors, audio systems, and digital signage for worship environments.
Digital Signage and Display
Retail, transport, and hospitality venues use digital signage to communicate and market dynamically. Our finance packages cover everything from small display networks to large-scale LED installations and interactive screens.
Why Choose Gable Business Finance?
- Decades of experience working with creative, broadcast, and live event businesses.
- Tailored finance structures to match production cycles and project timelines.
- Fast approval process and competitive terms.
- Access to finance for both established and start-up creative businesses.
- Support from specialist brokers who understand the nuances of the AV and media sectors.
Whether you’re producing a blockbuster, building a post-production facility, or managing national live events, Gable Business Finance is your trusted partner for creative industry funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is finance for broadcast and post-production?
Finance for broadcast and post-production is a tailored funding solution that enables media companies to acquire essential equipment like cameras, editing suites, OB trucks, and lighting systems. It spreads the cost over time, helping businesses preserve cash while maintaining access to cutting-edge technology.
How does asset finance work for creative businesses?
Asset finance allows you to use or own equipment by making manageable monthly payments rather than paying upfront. Depending on the finance structure — such as hire purchase, finance lease, or operating lease — you can choose to own, rent, or upgrade equipment over time.
Can start-up production companies get finance?
Yes. Gable Business Finance works with new and emerging creative businesses. We assess each application individually, considering factors like project contracts, cash flow forecasts, and client pipelines — not just credit history.
What equipment can be financed in the broadcast and AV sector?
Virtually any tangible asset can be financed, including cameras, lighting systems, microphones, sound desks, projectors, digital signage, motion control rigs, and production vehicles. Software, installation, and associated costs can often be included as well.
What’s the difference between a finance lease and hire purchase?
In a finance lease, you rent the asset for an agreed period and return or renew it at the end. In hire purchase, you make payments that lead to full ownership once the agreement ends. Both spread costs and improve cash flow but differ in end-of-term ownership.
Is refinancing an option for creative companies?
Yes. If you already own equipment such as cameras, servers, or lighting rigs, you can refinance these assets to unlock capital for new projects, upgrades, or cash flow management — all while retaining use of the equipment.
Do you provide finance for short-term projects?
We can structure finance around project-based schedules, including short-term rentals, event contracts, or production timelines. Flexible repayment terms mean your finance can match your project revenue streams.
Can Gable finance software and post-production systems?
Absolutely. We can include the cost of editing software, sound design programs, VFX systems, and subscription-based production tools within the finance agreement, allowing a complete, integrated solution.
Why choose Gable Business Finance over a traditional bank loan?
We specialise in the creative industries. Our brokers understand project-based income, seasonal revenue, and the need for fast, flexible funding. Traditional banks often lack this industry-specific knowledge or flexibility.
How can I get started?
Simply contact Gable Business Finance for a consultation. Our specialist team will discuss your project, equipment needs, and available finance options to find a solution that fits your budget and creative goals.
Let’s Build Your Creative Vision
From studio lighting to post-production gear, and from live events to broadcast installations — every project begins with the right tools. At Gable Business Finance, we make it possible for creative businesses to access the technology that turns vision into reality.
Specialist Asset Finance for Broadcast, Post-Production, Live Events and the Audio Visual Sector
The UK’s creative industries thrive on innovation, artistry, and technology. Whether producing a live broadcast, mixing audio for a feature film, or managing a national tour, access to the latest tools can define the quality of the final output. At Gable Business Finance, we provide flexible, specialist asset finance solutions for the broadcast, post-production, live events, and audio visual sectors — empowering creative companies to deliver their best work without compromising on financial flexibility.
With decades of experience supporting the creative economy, Gable understands that every production or installation has unique financial and operational needs. We combine sector expertise with tailored funding to help studios, agencies, and AV companies acquire, lease, or refinance the equipment that powers their creativity.
Why the Creative Industry Needs Specialist Asset Finance
The UK’s media and creative industries are experiencing unprecedented growth. But the tools that enable this — from cameras and editing software to immersive AV systems — are expensive and fast-evolving. Specialist asset finance allows creative businesses to stay competitive by spreading costs, preserving cash flow, and keeping technology current.
- Access the latest film, audio, and AV technology without upfront payment.
- Preserve working capital for day-to-day production needs.
- Finance both tangible assets and digital tools like software and servers.
- Support sustainability and growth through predictable monthly budgeting.
- Enable long-term planning with flexible repayment options.
Specialist Assets We Finance for Media Businesses
At Gable Business Finance, we recognise that creative professionals depend on more than just traditional tools — they rely on specialist technology that drives storytelling, experience, and engagement. Our finance services cover an extensive range of assets for production, broadcast, and post-production environments.
We have financed a variety of specialist assets for media and entertainment businesses, including:
- Audio-visual equipment such as LED walls, projection systems, and lighting rigs.
- Recording equipment including microphones, sound desks, and mixing consoles.
- Post-production suites featuring editing systems, servers, and storage arrays.
- Specialist hardware such as motion control systems, robotic camera rigs, and broadcast switchers.
- Software packages for editing, compositing, sound design, and VFX pipelines.
- Studio fit-outs and infrastructure upgrades for film, television, and live event spaces.
However, we do not limit ourselves to what we finance. If you believe an asset is essential to starting or growing your creative business, we’ll consider financing it. Whether it’s a new piece of emerging tech or a bespoke installation, we assess each application on its creative and commercial merit — not just a checklist.
Real Life Case Studies
Case Study 1: Independent Film Studio Expands Post-Production Capabilities
A London-based independent film studio needed to upgrade its post-production department with 8K-capable editing systems, calibrated monitors, and colour grading suites. Gable Business Finance structured a hire purchase agreement over five years, allowing the studio to spread costs while maintaining cash flow. The investment increased project turnaround speed by 40% and opened new revenue streams from commercial work.
Case Study 2: Live Events Company Finances Touring LED and Audio Systems
An event production company based in Manchester required a scalable AV package for a series of arena tours. Through a finance lease, Gable funded high-lumen projectors, modular LED panels, and line-array sound systems. The client was able to upgrade equipment mid-term to stay aligned with tour specifications — and recouped the investment within 18 months.
Case Study 3: Broadcast Company Refreshes Studio Infrastructure
A regional broadcaster sought to modernise its studio infrastructure to transition from HD to UHD broadcast. Gable provided asset refinance on existing cameras and editing equipment, freeing up capital to purchase new switchers and servers. The studio completed the transition without external investors or disruption to operations.
Case Study 4: Music Production Studio Builds a New Recording Suite
A boutique recording studio in Bristol wanted to expand into immersive audio mixing. Using a lease rental structure, Gable financed mixing desks, outboard gear, and DAW systems. The studio’s new immersive suite attracted major label clients and doubled session bookings within six months.
Case Study 5: Cinema Chain Invests in Digital Projection and Seating
A small cinema group in the Midlands sought to modernise its facilities with digital projection, surround sound, and luxury seating. Gable structured a commercial loan covering equipment and refurbishment costs, matched to expected cash flow from new premium ticket sales. The result was a 25% rise in attendance and higher customer satisfaction ratings.
Case Study 6: Digital Agency Finances Motion Control System for Virtual Production
A creative digital agency specialising in advertising invested in a high-speed robotic arm for motion-controlled shoots. Through asset finance, Gable enabled them to acquire the system without depleting working capital. The new setup positioned the agency as a leader in virtual production and high-end advertising content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is finance for broadcast and AV businesses?
Finance for broadcast and AV businesses provides access to specialist funding for essential equipment such as cameras, editing suites, OB trucks, and lighting systems. It allows companies to spread costs while maintaining technological edge and cash flow stability.
Can Gable finance new and second-hand equipment?
Yes. We finance both new and used broadcast, audio, and AV equipment. This includes second-hand assets from trusted suppliers, helping clients reduce costs while maintaining quality.
Do you work with start-up creative companies?
Absolutely. Gable Business Finance supports start-ups and independent creators. We evaluate funding requests based on the project, business plan, and future potential — not just trading history.
What types of assets qualify for financing?
We finance tangible and intangible assets, including AV, lighting, cameras, software, editing suites, and bespoke creative technology. If the asset supports your business operations, we’ll consider it for funding.
Can I refinance existing equipment?
Yes. Asset refinance lets you unlock capital from equipment you already own. It’s a valuable tool for raising funds for upgrades, working capital, or expansion without taking on new debt.
What are the tax benefits of asset finance?
Depending on your structure, asset finance can provide tax advantages such as deductible payments or capital allowances. Your accountant or financial advisor can confirm your eligibility.
How do I apply for creative sector finance?
Contact Gable Business Finance to discuss your project. Our specialist brokers will guide you through available finance structures and tailor a solution aligned with your creative goals and cash flow.
Empowering Creativity Through Finance
From film studios to event companies, and from cinemas to digital agencies — every creative business depends on its tools. Gable Business Finance ensures you have the resources to bring your vision to life. With flexible asset finance, you can invest in the equipment that powers your creativity, while keeping your finances strong and predictable.
Get in touch today with our creative finance specialists to explore your funding options and take your next project from idea to screen, stage, or sound booth.