How the Film Industry Is Shaping Arizona’s Economy

The film industry is one of the biggest and most lucrative in the world – and it’s having a major impact on Arizona’s economy. While many movies and shows have been shot in major cities like Los Angeles and Toronto, more companies are starting to take advantage of Arizona’s wide open spaces and relatively lower production costs. With so many film creators using Arizona as their base of operations, the future of our state’s economy is looking bright. With a new tax credit going into effect, it’s likely that Arizona residents can expect even more financial growth.

Arizona’s New Motion Picture Tax Credit 

According to the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, a new tax credit for motion picture production went into effect on January 1, 2023. This credit, also known as the Motion Picture Production Program (HB2156), is meant to produce new income tax credits for film production companies that film their projects in the state of Arizona. Eligible film production companies could receive up to $125 million in refundable income tax credits by the time the program has been fully implemented.

In order to qualify, a film project must film on location somewhere in Arizona. The majority of filming must occur in the state, although it is possible for companies to film a small portion of scenes elsewhere. Creators may be able to get 15-20% of their base production costs back as a tax credit, but there is also a 7.5% credit that may cover other costs as well.

How Film Shapes Arizona’s Economy

How will the film industry impact Arizona’s economy? With production costs steadily on the rise, filmmakers – and more so, film producers – will be looking for ways to boost their profits. Not only is it usually less expensive to film in Arizona, compared to other major locations, but the tax credit will make it even more enticing for film companies to choose our state for their project. Plus, more film production companies may choose to base themselves in Arizona, or more film production companies may be founded here.

In addition to the revenue generated by a film produced in Arizona, there are other benefits for our local economy. Tucson Creative Catering has worked on sets before, and we can attest to the massive workforce required for even minor projects. While every production is different, many will begin to source their workers from the local area. Not only will the rise of the Arizona film industry create more jobs, it will also add money to our economy through overhead costs like hotels, car rentals, production resources, and more.

Expert Craft and Catering Services for Arizona Film Sets

When it comes to a film set, there are a million moving parts that must be taken into consideration in order to make the project a success. Lights, actors, sets, costumes, special effects – and that’s just what you see on screen. Behind the scenes, it takes advanced technology and huge workforces to get the job done. In order for these workers to do their best, they need the right fuel. That’s where craft and catering services come in. craft and catering services provide snacks, food, and drink to cast and crew members on set.

While it may seem easy to get some snacks together, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Film sets are extremely busy places, and with so many people going in and out, a craft and catering   services table could be emptied in minutes. Film crews work long days, and the table will need to be refreshed on a regular basis in order for the crew to enjoy fresh snacks. Plus, cast or crew members could have certain dietary restrictions that limit choices. A film set needs a catering company that has experience working in these busy environments, with the capability to fully service the needs of a film production.

Tucson Creative Catering has extensive experience working in demanding and challenging environments, making us the perfect team to provide craft and catering services for your film set in Arizona. Based in Tucson, we’re available to provide craft and catering services for film sets throughout the area.

Contact Tucson Creative Catering for Your Film Project Today!

If you’re planning to film your project in Arizona, you’ll need an expert catering company to provide exceptional craft and catering services. Tucson Creative Catering has hands-on experience serving the catering needs of film production sites, and we’re here to ensure your set is never without reliable craft and catering services – no matter what time you wrap. Get in touch with us today to learn more!

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