NME publisher IPC is launching a sales initiative which will give independently owned newsagents and record shops the chance to stage a gig in their shop at the media group's expense. The offer is part of a bid to get NME priority racking in independent stores around the country. The publisher is also supplying newsagents with disc-shaped 'shelfwobblers', limited edition posters and gold counter display units. Those newsagents who get the biggest sales uplift as part of the promotion will get the gig.
Press Gazette quote NME Publishing Director Paul Cheal thus: "It's essential that young music fans can buy a copy of NME from their local shop every week. Indie music has never been so popular and we're delighted to support independent newsagents who want to capitalise on this".
Of course, if the NME's recent covermount promotion championing 'independent' record labels is anything to go by, the winning newsagent will probably turn out to be owned by Tesco.