Consumers’ search for new musical discoveries boosts independent record store sales
Despite the industry trend away from physical music sales in favour of digital downloads, independent record stores have experienced a revival in 2013, as consumers search for music beyond the mainstream.
According to data from the Official Charts Company, sales from independent record stores saw a 44% upturn in the first half of 2013, compared with 2012 figures. In particular, independent stores have been praised for their role in promoting little-known artists and rare material from established performers. In the words of Paul Quirk, Chairman of the Entertainment Retailers’ Association;
“These figures demonstrate that the time-honoured role of indie stores in highlighting music which might otherwise fall through the cracks is as relevant today as it has ever been. Indie stores are driving some of the most exciting new initiatives in music, as well as continuing to support and help break new talent.”
Beyond this renewed interest in independent record stores, digital jukeboxes in pubs and bars across the country are also helping bands gain exposure. Through Soundnet’s Venue Favourites service, venue owners have the option to request specific songs to be added to the jukebox. Thanks to this feature, tracks from undiscovered local talent sit side-by-side with the latest chart releases and every top 40 track since 1952 in the jukebox’s extensive back catalogue.
This not only provides bands with a vital opportunity to have their music heard, it also boosts takings for venue owners, encouraging the artists’ friends and families to visit the venue and use the jukebox.
Taking this link with the local music community further, venue owners can even use the digital jukebox’s sleek touchscreen display to advertise up-coming live music nights through the What’s On event calendar feature.
Contact Soundnet for further information on how a digital jukebox could allow your venue to reach out to new customers in the local area.
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