UTA, a global talent, entertainment, sports and advisory company, has released financial data for its U.K. division, UTA UK, which encompasses operations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The filings offer a glimpse into the firm’s growth strategy, particularly its expansion into sports representation and its broader international ambitions.
Revenue Growth and Operating Losses
For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, UTA UK reported revenue of £77.0 million ($104.0 million), a 67 percent increase from the £46.2 million reported previously. This growth is attributed to the June 2024 acquisition of Representatives of Outstanding Footballers (ROOF), a firm specializing in European soccer player representation, as well as organic growth within the business. However, the firm’s operating loss widened to £34.6 million ($46.7 million) from £11.3 million.
UTA stated that the combination of ROOF and its existing Klutch sports business positions the company to compete in the global sports market beyond its traditional focus on U.S. basketball and other sports.
Strategic Expansion and Acquisitions
UTA has prioritized London as its international hub, investing in its presence and diversifying its business areas. The company’s U.K. creators business is one example of this strategy. Over the past decade, UTA has acquired more than 20 companies globally, expanding into areas such as talent management, music, theatre, comedy, sports, and publishing.
UTA UK’s previous acquisitions include The Agency Group, MediaLink, and Curtis Brown. The company indicated in its U.K. filing that it “continues to look for complementary opportunities to grow its business,” suggesting further acquisitions are possible.
In 2023, UTA invested in a Central London office to facilitate its expansion across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Last summer, Darnell Strom, who has previously represented figures such as Malala Yousafzai and former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, was appointed head of the U.K. office.
UTA’s U.K. and European agents represent a diverse roster of talent, including Bad Bunny, Damian Lewis, Richard Gadd, Ncuti Gatwa, Lily James, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Cynthia Erivo, soccer stars Virgil van Dijk and Kai Havertz, and authors Lucy Foley and David Nicholls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UTA UK’s primary focus?
UTA UK incorporates the firm’s business across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, with a recent emphasis on expanding its presence in sports representation, particularly in European soccer.
Why did UTA UK’s operating loss increase?
The firm’s operating loss widened due to acquisition-related expenses, integration costs associated with acquisitions like ROOF, and investments in growth opportunities.
What does UTA’s investment in London signify?
UTA’s investment in a Central London office and the appointment of Darnell Strom as head of the U.K. office highlight the company’s commitment to London as its international hub and its confidence in the region’s financial and strategic potential.
As UTA continues to integrate recent acquisitions and pursue further growth opportunities, it remains to be seen how these investments will shape the company’s long-term financial performance and position within the global entertainment and sports industries.
