The internet was supposed to be the great leveller, enabling smaller artists and labels to reach global audiences in a way not previously possible. But, it turns out that getting music to these global fan bases is not quite so straightforward. Smaller labels simply do not have the resources to enable them to distribute music across all territories. In fact, the compulsion to reach more markets actually increased the need for global capabilities not reduced it. The solution to emerge was third party distribution companies that are now a crucial part of the business of most independent labels. The majors were quick to recognise the opportunity and establish themselves as central players in this fast-growing sector.

Companies and brands mentioned in this report: AWA, Beggars Group, Believe Digital, Big Machine, CD Baby, Consolidated Independent, Ditto, FUGA, Kontor New Media, InGrooves, Merlin, PIAS, Sony Music, Spotify, The Orchard, Tunecore, Universal Music, Vivendi, Warner Music