MIP London Ends, New MIP Talks to Debut at 2027 London Book Fair

MIP London bows out after two editions

The annual MIP London showcase, which debuted in 2025, will not be on the 2027 calendar. Organisers RX France announced that the event will cease after its second edition, citing a strategic shift toward a new format that aligns more closely with the evolving publishing ecosystem.

Introducing MIP Talks: a conference built for a connected industry

In place of the traditional trade show, RX France will host MIP Talks, a two‑day conference scheduled for 16–17 March 2027. The program runs concurrently with the London Book Fair, allowing participants to move seamlessly between the fair’s exhibition halls and the conference’s curated sessions.

Purpose and vision

MIP Talks aims to bring together leading voices from the increasingly interconnected worlds of publishing, technology, and media. The agenda focuses on cross‑border rights, digital transformation, and emerging markets, reflecting the broader trend of collaboration across the global supply chain.

Key themes for 2027

Rights and royalties in a multi‑platform environment
Data‑driven editorial strategies
AI‑assisted content creation and ethical considerations
Sustainable publishing practices
Expanding into African and Asian markets

What attendees can expect

The conference will feature a blend of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Organisers have confirmed participation from senior executives at major publishing houses, technology providers, and literary agents.

Sample schedule

Day 1 – Rights and Revenue: Sessions on multi‑territorial licensing, blockchain for rights tracking, and case studies from leading rights departments.
Day 2 – Innovation and Sustainability: Workshops on AI tools for editorial workflows, roundtables on carbon‑neutral publishing, and a showcase of emerging market success stories.

Why the change matters for the industry

Industry analysts note that the shift from a trade exhibition to a content‑focused conference mirrors the broader digitalisation of publishing. By concentrating on dialogue rather than product displays, MIP Talks positions itself as a knowledge hub where strategic decisions are informed by real‑world data and peer insight.

According to a recent report by the British Publishing Council, conferences that blend market intelligence with networking generate higher conversion rates for rights sales. MIP Talks is therefore likely to become a catalyst for new co‑production agreements and cross‑border deals.

Location and logistics

The event will be held at the ExCeL London exhibition centre, the same venue that hosts the London Book Fair. Attendees can benefit from combined registration, granting access to both the fair’s exhibition floor and the conference’s sessions.

Travel and accommodation packages are being coordinated with local hotels to provide discounted rates for early registrants. Organisers have also announced a sustainability pledge, committing to reduce single‑use plastics and to source catering from local, ethical suppliers.

How to register

Registration opens in early November 2026 via the official MIP Talks website. Early‑bird tickets include full conference access, a copy of the event programme, and a complimentary pass to the London Book Fair exhibition.

For publishers and rights professionals who cannot attend in person, a hybrid streaming option will be available, featuring live subtitles and on‑demand recordings of all sessions.

Industry reactions

Publishers have expressed optimism about the new format. A senior acquisitions director at a leading European house said, "MIP Talks offers a focused environment where we can discuss rights, technology and sustainability without the noise of a large trade show."

Authors and literary agents also welcomed the change, noting that the conference’s emphasis on cross‑border collaboration could open doors for previously untapped markets.

Broader context: publishing at a crossroads

The launch of MIP Talks occurs at a time when the publishing sector is grappling with rapid technological change, shifting consumer habits, and a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion. UNESCO’s recent initiative on inclusive publishing highlights the need for platforms that facilitate dialogue across cultures and languages (UNESCO Publishing).

By aligning its schedule with the London Book Fair, MIP Talks situates itself within a historic hub of literary exchange, while offering a modern agenda that addresses the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Looking ahead

Organisers anticipate that MIP Talks will become an annual fixture, evolving each year to reflect emerging trends. The 2027 edition serves as a pilot, and feedback from participants will shape future programmes.

For stakeholders seeking to stay ahead of market shifts, the conference represents a timely opportunity to engage with peers, discover new tools, and negotiate rights in a collaborative setting.

As the publishing world continues to intersect with technology, data, and sustainability, MIP Talks positions itself as a bridge between tradition and innovation, offering a platform where ideas can be exchanged and deals can be forged.