Independent distributors New Note and Proper Music have announced an alliance which will see the latter handle the physical distribution for the labels represented by the former.
New Note, which specialises in jazz, world and classical music, has previously used Pinnacle to handle its physical distribution. The new deal with Proper was due to kick in next March, but with Pinnacle's collapse this week is likely to start sooner.
The two companies say that by combining their distribution services and networks New Note and Proper Music will become the sixth largest physical music distributor in the UK, fifth if Pinnacle disappears.
In a statement probably crafted before news of Pinnacles difficulties, New Note co-owner Eddie Wilkinson told reporters: "We are delighted to have agreed this partnership with Proper. We had many years of success with Pinnacle but feel that the combined strength of New Note and Proper offer our labels a positive and exciting step forward in the face of an uncertain future for recorded music".
Proper Music Chairman Malcolm Mills added: "It's obvious that the two companies are a good fit. We will become the primary distributor for anyone involved in the genres of jazz, world and folk music as well as consolidating ongoing strength in other genres such as country, Americana and blues. We're particularly pleased about the expertise that New Note brings in the field of classical music and the new opportunities that are open to us there".