Zinc Media Group launches AI label Cicada as tech provides ‘revenue boost’

Olly Strous and Jenny Springett

The UK’s Zinc Media Group has launched an AI label and claimed it has generated several million pounds in AI-related revenue in 2025 from activities ranging from industry trade events to AI-powered TV commercials.

The new unit, Cicada, will work in partnership with Zinc’s television and events divisions, as well as brand content company The Edge, as it seeks to “supercharge” research, development, production and post-production with AI.

Led by Zinc’s chief technology officer, Olly Strous, the label sits within Zinc’s technology team.

Working with Strous will be experienced AI professional Jenny Springett, who joined Zinc’s entertainment subsidiary, Electric Violet, last year in a development role and is AI innovation lead for Cicada.

Zinc Media produces premium factual, entertainment and branded storytelling for global broadcasters and platforms, with a portfolio of specialist production companies. It also works across commercials, branded content, live events, training content and educational media.

“Cicada is a playground with a purpose,” said Strous. “We are working with our colleagues across the group to elevate and enhance their already exceptional work across films, events and content and showcasing what AI can do, for our clients, our labels and the wider industry.”

Springett added: “Cicada is about two things: creativity that makes people stop scrolling, and productivity that actually delivers return on investment. AI can do both, and we’re building the proof of that here.”