COVID-19’s Impact on Film Production and Trucking
The effects of COVID have impacted every commercial industry and continues to do so. Perhaps many of us first noticed the repercussions in the supply chain as store shelves became noticeably emptier and restaurants reduced their menu selections. Almost silently, the film production industry was affected just as much–and that directly impacted the trucking industry.
Although it may not seem obvious, the trucking and entertainment industries are heavily interconnected. And while COVID-19 has played a pivotal role in these two industries there are steps being taken to recover from the aftermath.
COVID-19 and the Film Industry
In 2020, as the pandemic forced businesses to shut down and turned the daily routines of people from all walks of life upside down practically overnight, in an effort to retain some state of normalcy, we found new ways of coping. Who would have thought that the entertainment industry helped with that? In many ways the entertainment industry may seem frivolous and unnecessary. However, in the midst of the turmoil, many of us found a different sense of peace and serenity made possible because of film crews, actors and actresses.
With social activities restricted, we found an escape route from the uncertainty by tuning in to watch an array of movies and television series. From family favorites new and old to action, drama, and comedy films, we embraced the access to the vast sources of entertainment all in the comfort of home. And whether we sought laughter, love, an adrenaline rush, or merely a “feel good” flick, it was available through entertainment platforms.
The reality is that the artists’ lives were affected just as much as anyone’s. According to the Otis Report on the Creative Economy, between February and December 2020, in Los Angeles County, CA alone, more than 90,000 jobs were lost. Further, those lost jobs and lost revenue didn’t only have a negative impact on individuals in the filming industry. Rather, it had a domino effect on various other industries including restaurants, hospitality, retail, manufacturing, and transportation.
The people involved in filming ceased to patron restaurants, travel and stay in hotels, or even need dry cleaning services. Further, without new movies and television shows to push new heroes into popularity, the manufacturing of new toys and other products representative of this simply didn’t happen, which has vastly affected retail, marketing, and the trucking industry.
Not to encourage lazy habits, but COVID and being homebound for months on end essentially caused us as consumers (whether via physical goods or streaming entertainment) to form new habits that likely won’t go away any time soon. Studies indicate that data consumption during the peak of COVID increased by 30%. This is good news in the world of entertainment, and it’s expected that the film production industry will be even stronger over the next few years.
COVID-19 and the Trucking Industry
Additionally, during the peak of COVID-19 shutdowns, like other essential industries, the trucking industry didn’t slow down. Recognized as the backbone of America, manufacturing companies along with fleets and truck drivers continued business as normal, making accommodations along the way. These heroes transported medical supplies, food, and consumer goods from point A to point B, regardless of how limited choices were for meals, showers, and public rest stops along the way. While many of us enjoyed the safety of being home, having necessities delivered to our doorstep, and shutting out the undesirable goings-on of the world while we tuned in to a favorite show, truck drivers helped make all those creature comforts possible for us and our families.
Learn More About Truck Driving Opportunities
Both the entertainment and trucking industries are ramping back up, as creative solutions to current problems take hold and open the door for new growth and opportunities.
For anyone who has entertained the idea of becoming a truck driver, there’s no better time than the present!
Trucking companies are working diligently to attract more workers, offering everything from sign-on bonuses and better salaries to enhanced benefit coverage and flexible schedules. If you’re looking to explore all the opportunities trucking has to offer, Suppose U Drive can help.
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As a family-owned business located in Southern California, Suppose U Drive began in 1936 with a total of three trucks available for rent. Now, 85 years later, the company is still family-owned and, although the fleet and coverage area have expanded tremendously, the foundation of the business is still based upon strong family values and excellent customer care. To sign up for our free newsletter and join our digital family, visit our sign up page.