Overview

This book is a comprehensive study of the record industry distribution system. It has a “real” hands-on approach with current projects already in motion within the distribution system. Distribution is but one aspect of the business end of this industry, arguably the most vital. The importance of distribution is stressed, along with the importance of other contiguous aspects such as sales, marketing and promotions including music video, radio, retail, publishing, trades, consumer print, street promotions and college networks. Marketing through cutting-edge web technology, and how to incorporate into retail distribution networks supporting SoundScan capabilities, are discussed. In general terms, the text within has specific details about the functionality of distribution, both physical and digital distribution along with the variables that facilitate its functionality. The product distribution systems, wholesale/retail markups, pricing strategies, major chains, rack jobbers, one-stops, mom and pop stores and other retail outlets are also examined. Included will be a campaign on existing product already within retail systems and an examination of radio promotion campaign efforts on targeted markets through tracking methods.

The basic necessity of distribution is fulfillment: meeting consumer demand, showing accurate marketing and promotion results, but doing so in a preemptive methodology. In this book, you will find that methodology is prefaced, defined, detailed and justified. The intent is to convey total understanding of the process of music distribution, as well as the significance of that process and all its variables in the scheme of the business of music.