Hot Press Launch Campaign Encouraging Musicians To Shop Local

The campaign is supported by the top Irish musical instrument distributors and retail outlets as well as well-known Irish musicians. The push comes at a time when the industry in Ireland is under threat from internet companies based abroad.

The HOT PRESS campaign argues that the local musician might find something a bit cheaper on the Internet from a company in deepest Slovenia, but you will not be able to hold the instrument, weigh it in your hands, test the feel of fingers on fretboard. Hot Press then asks, "If it gets broken in transit, will the seller suddenly become hard to reach? Will you incur the cost of returns?"

• Irish musical instrument shops enable you to test and try the instruments of your choice before buying.
• Instrument shops also provide after sales service and repairs in a way that no internet seller can.
• Irish stores are a vital part of the music infrastructure, providing invaluable advice, great service – and a place for musicians to form bands and interact with

The Hot Press SHOP LOCAL CAMPAIGN will continue to be highlighted in each issue of the magazine over the coming months.