Background Sounds in Shops - The Cost of Playing Music in Your Shop

The Cost of Playing Music in Your Shop | High Street Matters S2E6

Many independent retailers don't realise they need a music licence simply for playing background music in their shops - and the consequences of getting it wrong can be expensive and stressful.

In this episode of High Street Matters, host Claire Leigh is joined by Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, Grant Thompson from Background Sounds, and Mel Beard, Chair of Health Stores UK.

They explore the complex world of music licensing, revealing that there are around 60 different tariffs from PRS and PPL, and that retailers caught without a licence face a 50% premium on top of standard costs. Grant explains how royalty-free music works as an alternative, offering an average 70% saving, while Mel shares her experience of navigating the licensing landscape and why she chose the royalty-free route.

The episode covers what retailers need to know about their obligations, how to switch from existing licences, and why background music matters for creating the right atmosphere in shops.

Find out more at https://bira.co.uk/benefits/royalty-free-music/ Subscribe now so you don't miss future episodes tackling themes like accessibility, retail crime, and many more high street matters! Hear something you want to follow up on? Listener enquiries can be sent to info@bira.co.uk. For more on Bira's mission supporting Britain's independent retailers, visit www.bira.co.uk. To see the full High Street Matters series visit our podcast resource page.