Netflix and Shondaland said that the ‘Bridgerton’ universe has boosted the United Kingdom economy by more than a quarter of a billion pounds, supporting almost 5000 businesses over the past five years.

To mark this milestone and to coincide with the release of Part 2 of ‘Bridgerton’s third season, Shondaland CEO Shonda Rhimes opened markets for trading at the London Stock Exchange on June 14, according to a media statement put out by Netflix on its website.

Shondaland, said: “The ‘Bridgerton’ universe occupies a special space in culture, resonating with young and old alike, creating conversation, starting trends and influencing everything from baby names to weddings. The shows have also had a seismic impact on the UK economy, boosting it by a quarter of a billion pounds over the last five years and supporting thousands of jobs and businesses.

“It is clear that the business of art and culture can make a huge economic contribution to local communities. I could not be prouder.”

Anna Mallett, VP Production EMEA, Netflix, said: “The ‘Bridgerton’ universe is another example of Shonda Rhimes’ genius as a storyteller and her global influence. We’re so excited about the part we’ve played in bringing these stories to the world. As well as an economic boost, the shows have had a huge cultural impact. The UK is our home and this is one part of our huge investment in creating stories our members will love.”

The series, and its Regency-era aesthetic, has also had a profound influence on culture, both  in the UK and globally.

According to the Netflix statement, Visit West reported a boost in visits to the region where much of the show is set, contributing over £5 million to the local economy in Bath, Bristol, and surrounding areas.

Kiddies Kingdom saw a surge in new baby names inspired by the show, including a 51 percent increase in the name Daphne, a 27 percent increase in the name Eloise and a 26 percent increase in Colin from 2020-2021.  Vitamin String Quartet shared that fortnightly streams of its songs increased by 350 penterc after ‘Bridgerton’s Season 1 premiere in 2020.

Julia Hoggett, CEO, London Stock Exchange plc, said: “We are delighted to welcome Shonda Rhimes and Netflix to open trading at the London Stock Exchange. The Exchange was given its formal structure at the start of the 1800s – the same period in which ‘Bridgerton’ is set — and now as then we continue to help companies raise the capital they need to grow and thrive. Our film and creative industries bring enormous benefits to the UK economy, creating jobs, driving innovation and building communities, and we are thrilled to celebrate the significant economic and cultural impact of their work.”

Part 2 of Season 3 of ‘Bridgerton’ is available to stream on Netflix now with all previous seasons.