TREAD SOFTLY PRODUCTIONS CIC

Executive Summary

Tread Softly Productions CIC is a micro-scale community interest company operating in the performing arts sector, focusing on regional theatrical productions. Its current financials reflect a typical early-stage CIC with modest turnover and assets, positioned to leverage local cultural trends and community support. While it faces sector challenges common to small producers, its social enterprise status and initial production success provide a foundation for sustainable growth within its niche market.

TREAD SOFTLY PRODUCTIONS CIC - Analysis Report

Company Number: 13165554

Analysis Date: 2025-07-20 17:36 UTC

1. Industry Classification
   Tread Softly Productions CIC operates within SIC Code 90010, classified under the Performing Arts sector. This sector encompasses companies engaged in live theatrical productions, concerts, and other performance-based entertainment activities. Key characteristics include high dependence on creative talent, variable project-based revenues, and significant reliance on public and private funding or ticket sales. As a Community Interest Company (CIC), it is structured to deliver social value alongside commercial activities, often reinvesting profits into community or cultural projects.

2. Relative Performance
   With a turnover of £2,219 for the financial year ending January 2024 and a modest operating profit of £117, Tread Softly Productions CIC is at a nascent stage compared to typical industry benchmarks. The performing arts sector often sees micro to small enterprises generating revenues ranging from tens of thousands to several million pounds, depending on scale and reach. The company’s financials reflect a micro-entity profile with very low assets (£117 cash) and no fixed assets, which is common for small theatrical production companies in their startup phase. The absence of liabilities and a small team of 2 employees aligns with typical early-stage CICs in this sector.

3. Sector Trends Impact
   The performing arts sector is influenced by changing consumer behaviors, such as growing demand for digital content alongside live performances, and fluctuating public funding. Regional touring companies like Tread Softly Productions face challenges including venue availability, audience engagement, and competition for grants and sponsorship. Post-pandemic recovery efforts have seen increased public appetite for live events but also intensified competition and cost pressures. The company’s focus on regional touring in the South West positions it well to capitalize on local cultural initiatives and community support, which are critical trends for small-scale performing arts organizations seeking sustainability.

4. Competitive Positioning
   Tread Softly Productions CIC occupies a niche within the performing arts sector as a small, community-oriented producer focusing on regional tours. Strengths include its CIC status, which can attract social impact funding and community goodwill, and a lean cost structure that minimizes financial risk. Its operational scale and turnover are modest compared to larger theatre companies or commercial producers, limiting its market reach and resource base. The company’s early success in producing a well-received show demonstrates potential for growth. However, it must navigate sector challenges such as limited revenue diversification, dependency on local venues, and the need for ongoing stakeholder engagement to enhance its competitive positioning relative to more established entities.