PIAS forms multi-year pact with distributor Cinram

European independent music group PIAS has appointed Cinram, a leading third-party distribution company, to handle its fulfilment services in a multi-year deal.

The contract, which had previously been with Arvato in UK and Ireland, means Cinram will handle the distribution of the numerous labels PIAS represents for sales, marketing and distribution.

PIAS offers these services for music companies like Beggars Group, BMG, Mute and Domino Recording Company.

Cinram fulfils them by ensuring the recordings by PIAS’ label partners are successfully shipped from its automated distribution centre in Aylesbury, in the South Midlands region of England, to specialist retailers. These include HMV, Rough Trade and Piccadilly Records.

"We were greatly impressed, not only with the overall knowledge, systems and experience of Cinram, but also their flexibility and determination to provide the highest levels of service in the ever-changing market,” PIAS COO Nick Hartley says.

Dean Watkins, business development director at Cinram UK, adds: “Music is at the very heart of Cinram’s heritage. PIAS is therefore a natural fit for us and we are delighted to welcome them and their extensive range of exciting labels as a new client. With both parties’ progressive attitude and passion for the sector, there is great scope and flexibility for us to build on the relationship as the industry evolves.”

[Juliana Koranteng]