Whether you are remain or leave the confusion around Brexit has already seen the pound plunge against the Euro and the US Dollar. In light of this fall in value we have noticed an increase in the Dealer Prices of new releases and in some case, (Music on Vinyl), an increase in their current catalogue.
This increase is a reflection of the much lower value of the pound and is not a reflection of what might and is likely to happen if we Brexit without some sort of deal. I fear that we will see further increases in dealer prices which may spell the end of the £9.99 album.
Many new releases are in my opinion currently over priced with Record Companies cashing in on the Vinyl Revival and of course there is the conspiracy theory that they are driving the prices up to drive sales down? It is well known in the US that vinyl much loved by consumers is not loved by the Record Companies who see only streaming as a going forward format.
This year we have seen quite a number of Record Retailers close as the Vinyl Market has become saturated and the addition of Supermarkets and other general multiple retailers has seen a downturn in turnover of a lot of Indie buisness. RSD sales to fans have decreased as many ebay based dealers have bought up much of the stock to cash in on this vinyl bonanza.
Having said all that on the plus side ERA is working hard to promote music and some labels are releasing best of albums at a 'mid' price enabling them to sell at a very reasonable price so maybe the £9.99 album may survive or maybe not. Onlt time will tell!
