The marketing, media and creative industries in Birmingham have fared well during lockdown but have still been hit by challenges, according to new research.
The poll, undertaken by trade group the Birmingham Publicity Association (BPA), analysed the views of businesses, employees and freelancers about how the covid-19 pandemic had impacted them.
The issues facing the sector, along with the results of the survey, will be discussed at an online event later this week.
The survey revealed that every respondent's organisation had managed to secure new business over the past ten months, despite government restrictions and lockdown pressure.
A further 75 per cent of those questioned said new technology had played a significant role in helping people adapt to the change in circumstances.
However, 45 per cent of respondents said they had been forced to reduce staffing numbers and 95 per cent felt increased levels of stress throughout this time.
Productivity levels increased, according to the research, with 80 per cent of respondents saying they had been more productive while working from home.
The survey also revealed some optimism as 65 per cent expected to be back to pre-covid levels of work by the end of 2021.
The BPA is hosting a webinar called '2021 Vision' on Thursday January 28 at 2pm to discuss the findings of the survey and how this will impact the coming year.
Among the topics up for debate are how covid-19 will impact the sector both professionally and personally and which issues need to be addressed.
Panelists include Birmingham Design Festival director Dan Alcorn, Marc Reeves, Midlands marketplace publisher for BusinessLive publisher Reach plc, CX2 Talent Solutions founder of Dan Rodrigues and Tara Tomes, founder of PR agency East Village.
BPA chairman Mark McDonagh said: "Overall, it's good to see that the industry is weathering the storm.
"However, it's not been without its challenges which have no doubt created levels of stress for almost everyone but there are positives to look forward to.
"The discussion will canvas the opinion of thought leaders from within the industry in Birmingham and also give us the opportunity to engage with our business community."
Mr Reeves added: "The talk will be a great way to check the temperature of the industry at the start of the year.
"It will act as a barometer for what we believe will be coming over the next few months during such uncertain times."
Visit Eventbrite to book a place at the webinar which is expected to last an hour.
