Today, the audiovisual industry plays a central role in enhancing the value of a territory. Whether it involves films, series or documentaries, each production represents a unique opportunity: boosting the local economy, creating jobs, strengthening tourism appeal, and showcasing the diversity of cultural heritage.
But for these positive impacts to truly materialize, one key element remains essential: raising awareness among local stakeholders, whether businesses, political leaders or municipalities.
A film shoot involves specific needs: permits, logistics, accommodation, catering, transport, security… Good coordination between production teams and local actors ensures efficiency and guarantees that operations are carried out with respect for public spaces, residents and the environment.
Many municipalities and businesses do not always grasp the positive impact of hosting a shoot, or conversely worry about potential complications. This is why awareness-raising is crucial to building trust, as the arrival of a production generates immediate benefits for the local economy. These range from accommodation and catering to equipment or vehicle rentals, and even the employment of local talent. Political and administrative authorities play a fundamental role in welcoming audiovisual projects. Their support helps speed up authorization procedures, facilitate access to filming locations, and enhance the image of the territory. Once aware of the benefits, elected officials often become the best ambassadors of the audiovisual industry and readily integrate its development into a broader strategic vision.
Beyond local initiatives, awareness-raising is also essential at the national level. A country with several film offices or film commissions has a strategic network capable of harmonizing filming practices while strengthening overall territorial attractiveness. Creating or reinforcing film offices in different regions of Switzerland is an essential step toward developing a coherent and internationally competitive audiovisual policy. These structures act as ambassadors for the territory at the international level.
Developing a territory that is attractive for film shoots does not happen overnight. It relies on continuous awareness, communication and cooperation among local, regional and national stakeholders. By strengthening dialogue between businesses, municipalities, political leaders and cultural institutions, it becomes possible to create a welcoming, efficient and sustainable environment for productions.
This culture of hospitality is the key to ambitious audiovisual development, capable of generating economic, cultural and social benefits for the entire territory.
