EMI yesterday announced it would be launching a new CD single pricing structure in the UK next month in a bid to tackle the sliding singles market.
Most single releases will now be available as a two track CD single for £1.99, which a special edition version featuring extra content often available for £2.99. Releases by the biggest names will continue to retail at £3.99. The label also plans to simplify CD pricing by ending the practice of discounting CD singles in the first week of release (a marketing trick used to push early sales in order to achieve a high chart entry).
Talking to Music Week EMI chairman Tony Wadsworth said he hoped the move would make lives easier for record buyers, recognising that: "There is confusion among consumers about pricing. They see singles at £1.99, £2.99 and £3.99 and don't know why."
HMV spokesman Gennaro Castaldo reacted positively to the news telling the BBC: "We're hoping that this now acts as a trigger for other record companies to start putting forward their own initiatives."