Industry Analysis & Industry Trends
Though the economy is set to improve over the next five years, the Record Stores industry will not likewise improve. Competition from big-box stores and streaming music websites will continue to dominate the market for music, with consumers placing an emphasis on convenience and price. The overall increase in disposable income and consumer sentiment will help slow the industry's decline, and some record stores will establish online storefronts to supplement their revenue, but these factors will not stop the industry's downward slide... purchase to read more
Industry Report - Industry Key Buyers Chapter
The Record Stores industry's top four players are expected to generate less than one-quarter of the industry's revenue in 2013. This low concentration is due to the specialized nature of many record stores, which are traditionally independent. Also, the distribution system has traditionally maintained short-term contracts, enabling independent stores to enjoy the same deals as chain stores. However, the industry's largest player, Trans World Entertainment Inc., has lost market share in recent years, with the company struggling to maintain profitability due to decreased sales because of the recession and the onset of digital music downloads... purchase to read more