Two of Canada's leading independent distributors — Toronto's Outside Music and Montreal's Distribution Select — have announced plans to merge.
As Billboard reports, the companies will merge their sales and distribution services on December 1, while maintaining their respective offices.
Outside founder and president Lloyd Nishimura confirmed to the publication that "seven long-time staff will be losing their jobs in this new partnership," while no jobs at Select will reportedly be affected. Outside will also continue to operate as a label and management company.
"This coming year we celebrate 25 years of supporting great artists and amazing labels," Nishimura said in a statement. "We are happy to announce an alliance that will allow for continued support of our artist and label partners for years to come."
Select vice-president Christian Breton said, "I know that, as a combined force, we can enhance our label support, and maintain great service to our retail partners. We can also offer new labels an excellent alternative in both the French and English markets, particularly those that remain dedicated to a physical sales presence."
Founded in 1995, Outside Music represents labels including Jagjaguwar, Secretly Canadian, Dead Oceans, Captured Tracks, Constellation and more, in addition to boasting individual deals with Sub Pop, Domino, Ninja Tune and !K7.
Distribution Select boasts a catalogue of over 8,200 audio titles and 12,700 video titles. Billboard notes the company also distributes over 65 percent of the French music share in the province of Quebec.
As Billboard reports, the companies will merge their sales and distribution services on December 1, while maintaining their respective offices.
Outside founder and president Lloyd Nishimura confirmed to the publication that "seven long-time staff will be losing their jobs in this new partnership," while no jobs at Select will reportedly be affected. Outside will also continue to operate as a label and management company.
"This coming year we celebrate 25 years of supporting great artists and amazing labels," Nishimura said in a statement. "We are happy to announce an alliance that will allow for continued support of our artist and label partners for years to come."
Select vice-president Christian Breton said, "I know that, as a combined force, we can enhance our label support, and maintain great service to our retail partners. We can also offer new labels an excellent alternative in both the French and English markets, particularly those that remain dedicated to a physical sales presence."
Founded in 1995, Outside Music represents labels including Jagjaguwar, Secretly Canadian, Dead Oceans, Captured Tracks, Constellation and more, in addition to boasting individual deals with Sub Pop, Domino, Ninja Tune and !K7.
Distribution Select boasts a catalogue of over 8,200 audio titles and 12,700 video titles. Billboard notes the company also distributes over 65 percent of the French music share in the province of Quebec.
