Number of independent record shops reaches 10-year high, despite overall decline in physical music distribution

The number of independent record stores in the UK has reached a 10-year high, according to the digital Entertainment and Retail Association. The study confirms that, as of December, there were 461 record shops throughout the UK, marking a 36% increase from the 339 stores that were operating in 2013.

However, even as record stores continue to populate, the number of shops selling physical music (including vinyl, CDs, tapes etc.) has reached an all-time low, with a 26% decline over the past 10 years.

Even with the shrinking market, indie record stores have increased their share of physical music sales, now accounting for 8% of all music sold in the UK. Back in 2013, indie shops represented only 3% of music outlets, whereas this year, they represent nearly a quarter, making up 23% of UK music distributors.

This marked growth of indie record stores further highlights the power of vinyl in today's music industry, as we head into the 16th consecutive year of vinyl sales growth across the UK, a rise owed in part to the blockbuster releases from A-list pop artists like Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo.

“In an entertainment market always full of surprises, this is in a class of its own,” said Kim Bayley, CEO of the Entertainment and Retail Association. “Despite largely being run by owner managers, indies have seen off competition from some of the largest and best-funded companies in the land. Indies have found their niche and they are here to stay.”