Why Using The Right SIC Codes Matters for Our Industry
The professional AV, sound and events technology industry relies on accurate recognition to ensure it is correctly represented to government, funders, lenders and policymakers. One of the simplest and most impactful ways businesses can support this is by using the correct Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes.
What are SIC codes and why do they matter?
SIC codes are used across the UK to categorise businesses and shape how industries are measured, supported and understood. Companies House, HMRC, government departments, lenders and insurers all use SIC codes to describe a company’s primary activities.
For many years, large parts of the live events and events technology supply chain have been misclassified, often falling under broad construction or electrical categories. The result is that the true scale and specialist nature of the industry has not always been visible in official data.
The importance of correct SIC coding was discussed at the ISCVE Forum during ISCVEx 2025, where members highlighted how misclassification can affect industry recognition, access to support and engagement with policymakers. This reflects wider concerns raised across the sector, particularly during periods of disruption when eligibility for support was often SIC-code dependent.
Industry bodies including PLASA and We Make Events have encouraged companies to review their SIC codes, especially following the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 period.
The SIC codes most often encouraged for our sector
There is currently no single SIC code that fully captures the breadth of work undertaken across AV, sound and events technology. Many companies legitimately use more than one SIC code to reflect what they do, particularly where work spans live performance support, systems integration, production services and equipment hire.
Two SIC codes frequently highlighted by industry groups as especially relevant are:
90020 – Support activities to performing arts
Commonly used by companies providing technical services, production support, systems, sound, lighting and events technology to live performance and events environments.
77291 – Renting and leasing of media entertainment equipment
Particularly relevant to businesses involved in the hire of professional audio, visual, lighting and related technical equipment.
These can be used alongside other appropriate SIC codes to reflect your full scope of activity.
Why correct SIC codes matter – a quick practical guide
Using accurate SIC codes help to:
- Improve visibility of the AV, sound and events technology sector in government data
- Support access to funding, relief schemes and skills initiatives
- Help lenders and insurers understand specialist business activities
- Strengthen evidence used by trade bodies when engaging with policymakers
- Reinforce the professional identity of qualified engineers and installers
SIC codes commonly used in the sector
Alongside 90020 and 77291, other SIC codes that may be relevant (depending on your business activities) include:
- 90010 – Performing arts
- 90030 – Artistic creation
- 93290 – Other amusement and recreation activities n.e.c.
- 59120 – Motion picture, video and television post-production
- 77390 – Renting and leasing of machinery and equipment
- 82990 – Other business support service activities n.e.c.
Important: choosing SIC codes is about accurately describing what you do. Many businesses legitimately use multiple codes.
How this supports ISCVE standards and Registered Installers
This issue aligns closely with ISCVE’s wider work to promote professional standards and competence through membership, training, assessment and the Registered Installer Scheme.
Accurate SIC classification helps reinforce the distinction between qualified specialists and general contractors, supporting confidence among clients, funders and policymakers, strengthening the visibility and credibility of the sector
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What does “n.e.c.” mean?
n.e.c. stands for “not elsewhere classified.” It is used where a legitimate business activity does not fit neatly into an existing SIC category, which is common in specialist, multi-disciplinary industries like AV, sound and events technology.
Can I use more than one SIC code?
Yes. Many businesses use multiple SIC codes to reflect the full scope of their work, especially if they operate across live events, installation, consultancy, design and/or equipment hire.
Will changing my SIC code affect my tax or legal obligations?
No. SIC codes are descriptive, not regulatory. Updating them does not change your tax rate, VAT status or legal responsibilities.
How often should SIC codes be reviewed?
It is good practice to review SIC codes whenever your business activities evolve, or at least when filing your annual Confirmation Statement with Companies House.
Why has this become more important in recent years?
During periods of disruption (including COVID-19), eligibility for support schemes was often determined by SIC codes. Misclassification meant many legitimate businesses were overlooked. Accurate coding helps ensure the industry is recognised in future policy, funding and skills initiatives.
Correct SIC codes may seem like a small administrative detail, but collectively they play a vital role in strengthening the industry’s visibility, credibility and influence.
