TOP 25 Media SubIndustry Q3/2023
Intro
Did you know that the media industry is projected to reach a market size of $2.2 trillion by 2025?
Welcome to the dynamic world of media, a sector that plays a pivotal role in shaping our society and driving economic growth.
From traditional print and broadcast media to digital platforms and streaming services, the media industry is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers.
In this article, we'll explore the key trends and developments that are transforming the media landscape, from the rise of social media influencers to the increasing demand for personalized content.
Our analysis reveals that the media industry is on the cusp of unprecedented growth, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing adoption of digital media consumption. However, it also faces challenges in sustainability and workforce management that must be addressed to ensure its continued success.
Ranking
#25 Internet Publishing
Employees: 1.5M
Revenue: 3.2T$
Description: The Internet Publishing industry encompasses companies involved in the creation, distribution, and monetization of digital content on the internet. Key players in this industry include online media companies, social media platforms, digital news outlets, and content streaming services. The industry is prominently active worldwide, with major players based in the United States, China, and Europe. The rise of the internet in the late 20th century marked the significant growth and transformation of this industry. With the increasing digitalization of information and the growing reliance on online platforms for news, entertainment, and communication, the Internet Publishing industry is poised for continued growth and presents numerous opportunities for innovation and investment in the future.
#24 Online Marketplaces
Employees: 3.2M
Revenue: 6.7T$
Description: Online Marketplaces is an industry within the Media sector that facilitates the buying and selling of goods and services on digital platforms. Key players in this industry include Amazon, Alibaba, eBay, and Etsy, among others. The audience for online marketplaces is vast and diverse, ranging from individual consumers to small businesses and large enterprises. These platforms are prominently active and relevant across the globe, with major players operating internationally. The industry experienced significant growth and transformation in the late 20th century with the rise of e-commerce and the internet. Online marketplaces provide a convenient and efficient way for businesses and consumers to connect, offering a wide range of products and services. With the increasing digitization of commerce and the growing popularity of online shopping, the Online Marketplaces industry is poised for future opportunities and continued expansion.
#23 Video On Demand
Employees: 100K
Revenue: 10B$
Description: Video On Demand (VOD) is a rapidly growing segment in the media industry that allows users to stream and watch video content on-demand. The key players in this industry include streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. These platforms cater to a wide range of audiences, including movie lovers, TV show enthusiasts, and those seeking original content. VOD is prominently active worldwide, with a significant presence in countries like the United States, India, and the United Kingdom. The industry gained significant traction in the early 2010s with the rise of Netflix and its shift from a DVD rental service to a streaming platform. Since then, VOD has experienced major changes such as the proliferation of subscription-based models and the entry of new players. With the increasing demand for online streaming and the growing popularity of original content, the VOD industry presents noteworthy opportunities for future growth and innovation.
#22 Mobile Advertising
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 10B$
Description: The Mobile Advertising industry is a dynamic sector within the Media industry that focuses on delivering targeted advertisements to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Key players in this industry include advertising agencies, mobile app developers, mobile ad networks, and technology companies specializing in mobile advertising solutions. The primary audiences for mobile advertising are mobile users who consume content and use various mobile applications. Mobile advertising is prominently active worldwide, with significant markets in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The industry experienced major changes and significant growth with the rise of smartphones and mobile internet access in the late 2000s. As mobile usage continues to skyrocket and consumers spend more time on their mobile devices, the mobile advertising sector presents abundant opportunities for businesses to reach their target audience effectively. With billions of dollars in revenue generated annually, it is a noteworthy sector for future opportunities and innovation.
#21 Outdoor Advertising
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 10B$
Description: Outdoor Advertising is a thriving sector within the media industry that focuses on advertising campaigns in outdoor spaces. Key players in this industry include advertising agencies, media companies, and outdoor advertising companies such as Clear Channel Outdoor and Lamar Advertising. The primary audience for outdoor advertising is the general public, as the ads are strategically placed in high-traffic areas to maximize visibility. This industry is prominently active in urban areas, where billboards, street furniture, and transit advertising are common sights. Outdoor advertising became significant in the early 20th century with the emergence of billboards and has since experienced major changes with the advent of digital signage and programmatic advertising. With advancements in technology and the increasing integration of digital capabilities, outdoor advertising presents noteworthy opportunities for future growth and innovation. This sector offers a unique way to reach a large and diverse audience, making it an attractive option for advertisers seeking to create impactful and memorable campaigns.
#20 Event Ticketing
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 10B$
Description: Event Ticketing is a thriving sector within the Media industry that focuses on the sale and distribution of tickets for various events such as concerts, sports games, theater performances, and festivals. The key players in this industry include ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster, Eventbrite, and StubHub, as well as event organizers, venues, and promoters. The primary audience for event ticketing services consists of individuals seeking to attend live events and entertainment enthusiasts. The industry is prominently active worldwide, with major ticketing platforms operating globally and events taking place in various countries. Event Ticketing became significant with the rise of online ticketing platforms in the late 1990s, revolutionizing the way tickets are sold and creating new opportunities for event organizers and consumers. The industry is noteworthy for future opportunities due to the increasing demand for live experiences, technological advancements in ticketing platforms, and the potential for expansion into emerging markets.
#19 Music Streaming
Employees: 10.5K
Revenue: 10.2B$
Description: The Music Streaming industry is a rapidly growing sector within the Media industry, providing on-demand access to a vast collection of music through online platforms and applications. Key players in this industry include streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music, as well as record labels and independent artists. The primary audience for music streaming services is music enthusiasts of all ages, who seek convenient and personalized access to a wide range of music genres. Music streaming is prominently active worldwide, with major markets in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The industry experienced significant growth and disruption in the late 2000s with the launch of Spotify and the subsequent shift towards subscription-based streaming models. With the increasing adoption of smartphones, advancements in technology, and changing consumer preferences, the music streaming industry continues to hold immense potential for future opportunities, such as personalized recommendations, exclusive content, and collaborations with other media platforms.
#18 Digital Music
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 20B$
Description: The Digital Music industry is a fast-growing sector within the broader media industry. It encompasses companies that provide digital music streaming, downloading, and distribution services. Key players in this industry include major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, as well as digital music retailers such as iTunes and Google Play Music. The primary audience for digital music services is music enthusiasts, who can access a vast library of songs and albums from various genres. The industry is prominently active worldwide, with a significant presence in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Japan. The Digital Music industry began experiencing major changes in the early 2000s with the emergence of file-sharing platforms and the subsequent shift from physical to digital music consumption. It continues to evolve rapidly, with advancements in technology and the rise of personalized music recommendations. This sector holds significant opportunities for future growth, driven by the increasing demand for streaming services, expanding global reach, and potential partnerships with other media platforms.
#17 Radio Broadcasting
Employees: 250K
Revenue: 20B$
Description: The Radio Broadcasting industry is a key sector within the broader Media industry. It involves the transmission of audio content via radio waves to a wide range of audiences. Key players in this industry include major media conglomerates like iHeartMedia, Entercom Communications, and Cumulus Media, as well as public broadcasters like National Public Radio (NPR) and British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). These companies employ thousands of individuals to produce and deliver news, music, talk shows, and other forms of entertainment through their radio stations. Radio broadcasting is prominently active and relevant worldwide, with significant audiences in both developed and developing countries. The industry has experienced major changes and advancements over the years, including the shift from analog to digital broadcasting, the rise of internet radio, and the integration of radio with other media platforms. Despite the emergence of new technologies and platforms, radio broadcasting remains a noteworthy sector for future opportunities due to its widespread reach, ability to engage local communities, and its resilience in providing real-time news and information during emergencies.
#16 Print Media
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 20B$
Description: The Print Media industry is a sector within the broader Media industry that involves the production and distribution of printed materials such as newspapers, magazines, and books. Key players in this industry include major publishing companies like Condé Nast, Hearst Corporation, and Meredith Corporation, as well as newspaper companies like Gannett Co., Inc. and The New York Times Company. The primary audience for print media consists of readers who prefer the tangible experience of reading physical copies of publications. While print media has faced challenges with the rise of digital media, it remains relevant in various parts of the world, particularly in regions with limited internet access or strong cultural traditions of print reading. The industry has experienced significant changes in recent years, with the advent of digital publishing and the decline in print advertising revenue. However, it continues to offer opportunities for targeted advertising, niche publications, and high-quality print products that cater to specific reader interests. With the potential for innovation in print production techniques and the enduring appeal of physical media, the Print Media industry remains a noteworthy sector for future opportunities.
#15 Film Distribution
Employees: 200K
Revenue: 30B$
Description: Film Distribution is a crucial sector within the Media industry that focuses on the distribution and release of films to various platforms and markets. Key players in this industry include major film studios such as Disney, Warner Bros, Universal Pictures, and Paramount Pictures, as well as independent film distributors like A24 and Lionsgate. The primary audience for film distribution is the global movie-watching population, which includes individuals of various demographics and interests. Film distribution is prominently active in major film markets such as the United States, China, India, and Europe, where the demand for films is high. The industry experienced significant changes with the rise of digital platforms, streaming services, and the globalization of film markets. With the continuous growth of the global film industry and the increasing demand for content across various platforms, film distribution presents noteworthy opportunities for future growth and expansion.
#14 Online News
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 50B$
Description: The Online News industry is a prominent sector within the Media industry, focusing on the delivery of news and information through digital platforms. Key players in this industry include major news organizations such as CNN, BBC, and The New York Times, as well as digital native platforms like BuzzFeed and HuffPost. The industry is predominantly active and relevant globally, with a wide range of audiences consuming online news across various countries and regions. The Online News industry experienced significant growth and major changes with the rise of the internet and the increasing adoption of digital technologies, particularly in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This sector is noteworthy for future opportunities due to its ability to reach vast audiences worldwide, the continuous advancements in digital technologies, and the increasing demand for real-time news updates and personalized content.
#13 Online Travel Agencies
Employees: 100K
Revenue: 50B$
Description: The Online Travel Agencies industry is a prominent sector within the Media industry. It encompasses companies that provide online platforms and services for booking travel-related products and services such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. Key players in this industry include Expedia Group, Booking Holdings, Trip.com Group, and Airbnb. The primary audience for these online travel agencies are individual travelers and businesses seeking convenient and cost-effective ways to plan and book their travel arrangements. The industry is prominently active globally, with a significant presence in major travel destinations and hubs around the world. This sector experienced major changes and significant growth in recent years, with the widespread adoption of internet and mobile technologies revolutionizing the way people research, plan, and book their travel. The rise of online travel agencies has disrupted traditional brick-and-mortar travel agencies, offering consumers a wide range of options, competitive prices, and personalized travel experiences. The industry's future prospects are noteworthy due to the continuous advancements in technology, increasing global travel demand, and the growing trend of experiential and personalized travel. With a large customer base and significant revenue generation, the online travel agencies sector presents lucrative opportunities for innovation, partnerships, and expansion into emerging markets.
#12 News Syndicates
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 50B$
Description: News Syndicates are a crucial part of the Media industry, providing news content to a wide range of audiences. Key players in this sector include major news agencies like Associated Press (AP), Reuters, and Agence France-Presse (AFP). These syndicates employ thousands of journalists, editors, and support staff to gather, verify, and distribute news stories globally. With their extensive networks and resources, they play a vital role in delivering timely and accurate news to various media outlets, including newspapers, television networks, and online platforms. News Syndicates are prominently active in major cities worldwide, with headquarters and regional offices in New York, London, Paris, and other major centers of media activity. This industry experienced significant growth and transformation in the late 20th century with the advent of digital technology and the internet, which revolutionized news gathering, distribution, and consumption. In the future, the News Syndicates sector will continue to be a noteworthy sector for opportunities as the demand for reliable, high-quality news content remains strong and the industry adapts to evolving technology and consumer preferences.
#11 Magazine Publishing
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 50B$
Description: Magazine Publishing is an industry within the broader Media sector that focuses on creating and distributing printed publications on a regular schedule. Key players in this industry include major magazine publishers such as Condé Nast, Hearst Communications, and Meredith Corporation. The primary audience for magazines includes individuals who have a specific interest in the topics covered by each publication, ranging from fashion and lifestyle to business and finance. Magazine Publishing is prominently active in major cities worldwide, with significant operations in New York, London, and Tokyo. The industry became significant in the late 19th century with the rise of mass printing technologies, and it has since experienced major changes with the advent of digital media. Despite the challenges posed by online content, Magazine Publishing remains a noteworthy sector for future opportunities due to its ability to provide curated and specialized content that appeals to niche audiences, as well as its potential for creative collaborations and innovative print formats.
#10 Streaming Platforms
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 100B$
Description: The Streaming Platforms industry is a rapidly growing sector within the Media industry. It refers to the online platforms that provide on-demand video and audio content to users over the internet. Key players in this industry include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. These platforms cater to a wide range of audiences, including individuals of all ages and demographics who are seeking entertainment and informational content. The industry is prominently active globally, with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions. The Streaming Platforms industry became significant in the early 2000s with the introduction of platforms like Netflix, and it has experienced major changes in recent years due to the emergence of new players and the increasing popularity of streaming services. This industry is noteworthy for future opportunities due to the continuous growth in demand for streaming content, the expansion of original programming, and the advancements in technology and internet infrastructure that enable seamless streaming experiences.
#9 Social Media
Employees: 500K
Revenue: $100B
Description: The Social Media industry refers to the sector within the broader Media industry that encompasses platforms and services for online communication, content sharing, and networking. Key players in this industry include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Snapchat. These platforms cater to a diverse range of audiences, including individuals, businesses, influencers, and organizations. Social media is prominently active and relevant worldwide, with a significant user base in North America, Europe, and Asia. The industry experienced major changes and significant growth in the early 2000s with the emergence of platforms like Friendster and MySpace, followed by the dominance of Facebook and the subsequent rise of mobile-centric platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. The Social Media industry is a noteworthy sector for future opportunities due to its immense user base, advertising potential, and the continuous evolution of social media platforms to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements.
#8 Book Publishing
Employees: 600K
Revenue: 120B$
Description: The Book Publishing industry is a key segment within the broader Media industry. It encompasses the creation, production, and distribution of printed books and e-books. Key players in this industry include major publishing houses such as Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, and Hachette Livre. These companies cater to a diverse audience, including readers of fiction, non-fiction, children's books, and educational materials. The industry is prominently active in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia, with established markets in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and China. The Book Publishing industry has experienced significant changes with the rise of digital technology, leading to the emergence of e-books and online platforms for self-publishing. Despite the challenges posed by digital disruption, the industry remains noteworthy for future opportunities as it continues to adapt and innovate in response to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.
#7 Film Production
Employees: 1.2M
Revenue: 120B$
Description: The Film Production industry is a key player in the Media sector, specializing in the creation and production of films for various platforms such as cinema, television, and streaming services. Major film production companies like Walt Disney Studios, Warner Bros., and Universal Pictures dominate this industry. These companies employ a large number of creative professionals, including directors, producers, actors, screenwriters, and crew members. The film industry is prominently active in major film production hubs like Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, Bollywood in Mumbai, India, and Nollywood in Lagos, Nigeria. The industry has been significant for decades, with major changes occurring in the early 20th century with the advent of sound and color technology, and more recently with the rise of digital filmmaking and streaming platforms. The film production industry is noteworthy for future opportunities due to the increasing demand for original content from streaming services, the global popularity of films, and the potential for international collaborations and co-productions.
#6 Entertainment Software
Employees: 1.5M
Revenue: 150B$
Description: The Entertainment Software industry is a dynamic sector within the broader Media industry, focused on the development, publishing, and distribution of interactive digital entertainment. Key players in this industry include major video game developers and publishers such as Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Take-Two Interactive. The industry caters to a wide range of audiences, from casual gamers to hardcore enthusiasts, and has a global reach, with prominent activity in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. The Entertainment Software industry experienced significant growth and major changes in recent decades, with the rise of online gaming, mobile gaming, and virtual reality. This sector is noteworthy for future opportunities due to the continuous advancements in technology, the increasing popularity of esports, and the expanding global gaming market, which is projected to reach a value of 200 billion dollars by 2023.
#5 Video Game Publishing
Employees: 500K
Revenue: 150B$
Description: Video Game Publishing is a thriving sector within the Media industry. It encompasses companies involved in the development, marketing, and distribution of video games across various platforms. Key players in this industry include major publishers such as Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Ubisoft, as well as independent studios like CD Projekt and Epic Games. The primary audience for video games consists of gamers of all ages and demographics, with a significant focus on millennials and Gen Z. The industry is prominently active worldwide, with major hubs in the United States, Japan, Europe, and Canada. Video Game Publishing experienced a significant boom in the late 20th century with the rise of home consoles and personal computers, but major changes have occurred in recent years with the growth of mobile gaming and the emergence of virtual reality. This sector is noteworthy for future opportunities due to the continuous innovation in technology, the increasing demand for immersive gaming experiences, and the potential for global expansion and market growth.
#4 Cable & Satellite TV
Employees: 1.2M
Revenue: 200B$
Description: The Cable & Satellite TV industry is a prominent sector within the Media industry. It encompasses companies that provide cable television and satellite television services to consumers. The key players in this industry include major cable and satellite TV providers such as Comcast, AT&T, Charter Communications, Dish Network, and DirecTV. The audiences for cable and satellite TV services are diverse and include households, businesses, and institutions. This industry is prominently active in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and India. Cable & Satellite TV became significant in the late 20th century with the widespread adoption of cable television and the launch of satellite TV services. It has since experienced major changes with the advent of digital television, streaming services, and the increasing competition from online platforms. The Cable & Satellite TV industry is noteworthy for future opportunities due to the growing demand for high-quality content, the expansion of streaming services, and the potential for international market expansion.
#3 Digital Advertising
Employees: 2.5M
Revenue: 250B$
Description: Digital Advertising is a rapidly growing industry within the Media sector. It involves the promotion of products or services through various digital channels, such as websites, search engines, social media platforms, and mobile apps. The key players in this industry include major tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Amazon, as well as advertising agencies and ad tech companies. The primary audiences of digital advertising are businesses and marketers who aim to reach and engage with their target customers online. Digital advertising is prominently active worldwide, with major markets in the United States, Europe, and Asia. It became significant in the early 2000s with the rise of internet usage and the development of online advertising platforms. The industry has since experienced major changes with the emergence of programmatic advertising, mobile advertising, and the increasing importance of data-driven targeting. With the continued growth of internet usage and the shift to online consumer behavior, digital advertising remains a noteworthy sector for future opportunities, offering vast potential for targeted advertising, personalized marketing campaigns, and innovative ad formats.
#2 Advertising Agencies
Employees: 1.4M
Revenue: 340B$
Description: The Advertising Agencies industry comprises companies that create and execute advertising campaigns on behalf of clients. These agencies provide a range of services, including strategic planning, creative development, media buying, and campaign management. Key players in the industry include global advertising agency networks such as WPP, Omnicom, Publicis, and Interpublic Group, as well as independent agencies like Droga5 and Wieden+Kennedy. The industry operates on a global scale, with prominent activity in major cities such as New York, London, and Tokyo. Advertising agencies have been significant since the early 20th century, but experienced major changes with the advent of digital advertising and the rise of social media platforms. With the increasing importance of targeted advertising and the growing digital landscape, the Advertising Agencies industry is a noteworthy sector for future opportunities, as companies seek innovative ways to reach and engage consumers in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
#1 Television Broadcasting
Employees: 2.5M
Revenue: 500B$
Description: Television Broadcasting is a prominent sector within the Media industry, encompassing the production and distribution of television content to a wide range of audiences. Key players in this industry include major broadcast networks like NBC, CBS, ABC, and Fox, as well as cable networks such as CNN, ESPN, and HBO. These companies employ millions of professionals across various roles, including producers, directors, writers, and on-air talent. Television broadcasting is prominently active in countries like the United States, where it serves as a primary source of news, entertainment, and sports coverage. The industry has experienced significant changes over the years, with the advent of digital broadcasting, streaming services, and the rise of online content platforms. This has opened up new opportunities for content creators, advertisers, and technology providers, making television broadcasting a noteworthy sector for future growth and innovation.
Summary
The article uncovers critical findings, including a surge in automation adoption and the rise of sustainability as a key concern in the media industry.
These findings have significant implications for companies operating in this sector, with opportunities for innovation and a growing need for sustainable practices.
Looking ahead, the media industry is expected to continue its expansion, with increased investments in technology and an emphasis on environmentally responsible practices.
Readers are encouraged to stay informed about industry trends, consider investment opportunities, and explore ways to contribute to sustainable growth in this dynamic industry.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the media industry, the possibilities are vast, and the path forward is clear: embrace innovation, sustainability, and responsible leadership.