ROUND TABLE
DEFINITION: How would you describe the current state of the production kit rental sector in 2026? DAN EDMONDS: We have had a strong start to 2026. We are aware of many productions coming online over the summer making it look like things are back to normal industry-wide. I know from speaking to crew in other departments there has been some uncertainty over their next jobs as many have ended or are coming to an end. It seems there is potentially a short break for some at the end of this quarter, but I am sure things will be more positive for everyone at the end of July or August. MATT BEARD: Production budgets are tighter than ever and timelines are squeezed. While the sheer volume of content being made from streaming to high-end corporate means the demand for kit is still there, the landscape is relentlessly competitive. The days of talking through set-ups are largely gone as the market has shifted to: ‘I need this cheap, and I need it now.’ We get one shot to secure the deal on price and availability; we have to be sharper, faster and more aggressive commercially than everyone else to stay in the running. DEF: Where are you seeing the strongest demand right now? MB: Compact multicamera set- ups continue to be the main focus. Independent and corporate productions are operating with much smaller crews – often a single filmmaker or a skeleton team – so the demand is entirely for lightweight, run-and-gun gear that doesn’t sacrifice production value. Full- frame workhorses like the Sony FX3, FX6 and Canon EOS C70 are out constantly, alongside versatile, fast zoom lenses (like 24-70mm and 70-200mm glass). Clients want kit that slots seamlessly into a tight corporate schedule or a fast-paced indie shoot, allowing them to capture top-tier cinematic quality without the massive footprint of a traditional cinema rig. DE: We have been busy on larger feature films this year. We don’t do much in the way of commercials very often – however I know this area has
MATT BEARD Sales director, Hireacamera, which provides UK-wide camera and lens rental
DAN EDMONDS Accounts manager for TV and Film, Universal Pixels, a company that offers LED screen hire and video rental equipment for productions
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