FDA
FDA – What We Do
The Film Distributors’ Association (FDA) represents the interests of film distributors in the UK and Ireland. Its membership ranges from Hollywood studios to independent operators and is responsible for 99% of all films released theatrically in the territory.
Brief history
The Film Distributors’ Association is the oldest film distributor trade body in the world, and since its inception in 1915 has represented the interests of distribution companies which acquire, market and release films to cinema audiences.
Originally established as the Kinematograph Renters’ Society of Great Britain and Ireland, the organisation sought to bring some much-needed structure to the business of film supply following a rapid increase in audience numbers. Over the years a further name change to the Society of Film Distributors followed, before the Association settled on its present denomination.
Our activity
Across its history, the FDA’s mission has always been to actively support our member companies with all of the assistance and advocacy they need, in order to maximise their individual business opportunities and reach the broadest theatrical audience possible.
To fulfil its aims and serve members’ interests best, the FDA delivers an all-encompassing programme of five core inter-related workstreams:
Policy & Resources – to present a coherent and positive voice for the UK and Irish distribution sector
Content Protection – to safeguard copyright and eradicate film piracy sourced from UK and Irish cinemas
Media Services – to fully support membership requirements and service all branches of the media
Audience Development – to better understand audiences, and to excite and inspire the cinemagoing habit
Industry Training – to offer industry entry-level opportunities and develop future leadership potential
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