Talent & Modeling Agencies Industry Profile

Companies in this industry represent or manage creative and performing artists, athletes, entertainers, writers, models, and other public figures. Major companies include Creative Artists Agency (CAA), United Talent Agency (UTA), and William Morris Endeavor Entertainment (WME), all of which are based in the US.

The talent and modeling agency industry remains in relative infancy in many regions throughout the world. Most agencies outside the US are locally focused. As show business becomes increasingly global, the major US talent agencies are establishing more offices around the world, hoping to sign locals poised to star in new markets.

The US talent and modeling agency industry includes about 4,100 establishments (single-location companies and branches of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $8 billion, as well as many sole proprietorships with no paid employees.

The industry includes agents, who focus on finding clients work, as well as personal managers, who try to find sponsorships and endorsements for clients.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven by spending on talent in the performing arts, sports, and advertising industries. The profitability of individual agencies depends on the success of agents' talent in winning auditions, leading to a steady stream of contracts. Large agencies have advantages in relationships with major studios, fashion designers, and cosmetic companies. Small agencies can compete successfully by specializing in a particular medium or location and developing niche customer relationships. The US industry ...