UK at CES: Tech Industry Concerns
- The United Kingdom's presence at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), a key event for showcasing technology and innovation, has diminished in recent years.
- Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the association behind CES, expressed his concern.
- In 2019, under the leadership of then International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, the UK sent a delegation of more than 100 companies to CES.
the UK’s tech presence at CES 2025 has noticeably shrunk, igniting worries within the industry. This decline, underscored by a reduced number of participating companies, has fueled concern from figures like CTA CEO Gary Shapiro about the UK’s backing of its tech sector on the global stage.While France significantly boosts its startup representation,concentrating on AI-driven innovations,the UK navigates a challenging landscape.In 2025, onyl 41 UK companies are listed for the show compared to events prior. Despite diminished government support, entities such as techUK are stepping up to assist British firms, offering crucial support. News Directory 3 highlights the shifts in the sector.Will the UK regain its footing in this pivotal tech arena? discover what’s next for the UK’s tech sector.
UK’s CES Presence Declines, Raising Tech Sector Concerns
Updated June 6, 2025
The United Kingdom’s presence at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), a key event for showcasing technology and innovation, has diminished in recent years. This decline has sparked worries about the level of support the UK provides its tech sector on the global stage.
Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the association behind CES, expressed his concern. He noted the UK’s support no longer matches that of other nations. “It’s kind of crazy, it doesn’t make any sense, I can’t explain it,” Shapiro saeid.
In 2019, under the leadership of then International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, the UK sent a delegation of more than 100 companies to CES. The government at the time anticipated deals worth millions of pounds, with eight UK firms receiving innovation awards. This strong showing contrasts sharply with the 2025 event.
this year, only 41 UK companies are participating in the CES 2025, including BT Group’s incubation arm, Etc, the female technology firm Elvie, and what3words, a company specializing in precise location technology. the reduced number highlights a significant shift in the UK’s tech sector representation at the show.
Shapiro pointed out that other European countries, including France, the Netherlands, and Ukraine, have a more robust presence. France,for example,is sending 110 startups to CES 2025,with a focus on healthcare,green technology,and mobility,all viewed through the lens of artificial intelligence.
Despite the decrease in government backing, techUK, a UK-based technology association, plans to attend CES 2025. Their goal is to support British companies by connecting them with public procurement opportunities, potential partnerships, and new investors.
What’s next
The UK government’s reduced engagement at CES raises questions about its commitment to promoting the nation’s tech sector internationally, especially when compared to the proactive involvement of other countries. The situation warrants attention to ensure the UK remains competitive in the global technology landscape.