Welcome to BusinessCloud’s MediaTech 50 ranking for 2026.
Featherbed Tales tops the annual ranking of UK companies creating original technology to transform production and delivery of media and the arts – from virtual worlds to music, podcasts, radio, video, film and the written word.
Following the creation of a 90-strong shortlist, the final ranking was decided by a combination of selections from an expert judging panel (see below) and a public vote among readers of BusinessCloud.
The judges
Simon Benson, creator, PlayStation VR / founder, TalentForTech
Simon is a leading technology consultant who has led multi-million-dollar AAA game projects, pioneered stereoscopic 3D console gaming and founded the PlayStation VR project. A former director of immersive technology at Sony, he is cited as inventor of over 50 patents.
Laura Harper, partner, Lewis Silkin
Laura advises the creative industries on commercial agreements and IP strategy. Now at Lewis Silkin, she has a wealth of experience in complex copyright, trademark, design & patent issues across the games, communications, fashion and TV sectors.
Rory Daniels, head of emerging technology and innovation, techUK
Rory leads on emerging tech & innovation for techUK, working with many of the UK’s leading tech companies across AI, robotics, quantum, semiconductors, space and more to ensure the UK builds and deploys the technologies of tomorrow.
Nick Donaghy, investment manager, Creative UK
Nick joined Creative UK as investment manager in 2024. He has previously deployed funds for the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, as well as supporting clients at the likes of Santander, FW Capital and NatWest.
Guy Pearce, tech & media M&A, Alvarez & Marsal
Consulting giant Alvarez & Marsal provides digital and technology expertise to companies.
Jonathan Symcox, editor, BusinessCloud
You can click on the company names to see what they do. Businesses wishing to purchase a dedicated business page – including a logo, website links and content promotion – with a feature box below can email editor Jonathan Symcox here.