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MVT and AIP Formalise Commitments on Fairness in Grassroots Music
September18
The Music Venue Trust (MVT) and the Association of Independent Promoters (AIP) have formalised two longstanding practices in the UK grassroots music sector: opposition to “pay-to-play” schemes and the policy of not taking commission on artist merchandise sales.
Both organisations stated that their members remain committed to ensuring artists retain full income from merchandise sold at shows and that performers are not required to buy or sell tickets or pay fees in order to secure performance slots.
While these principles have long been observed in the grassroots sector, the move marks a unified effort to present them as a benchmark for the wider live music industry.
AIP’s Code of Conduct already prohibits pay-to-play practices, and MVT recently confirmed that more than 800 Music Venues Alliance members share the same position. Survey data from the network underlines widespread support for maintaining these commitments.
Luke Hinton, Co-Chair, The Association of Independent Promoters said, “AIP fundamentally rejects the practice of pay-to-play. This unethical and exploitative model undermines the core principles of a healthy and equitable music industry. The AIP Code of Conduct strictly prohibits its members from participating in pay-to-play schemes. Pay-to-play is a predatory practice that exploits emerging artists, often leaving them in debt and demoralised. AIP is dedicated to creating a fair and transparent ecosystem for artists and promoters alike, where a shared passion for music and a collaborative spirit leads to success.”
MVT reiterated that merchandise sales remain a vital revenue stream for grassroots artists and emphasised that venues in its alliance do not, and will not, claim a share of that income.
Beverley Whitrick, COO, Music Venue Trust said, “The grassroots sector works because of the partnerships between venues, promoters, and artists. Practices like pay-to-play and merchandise commission undermine that partnership and exploit the very talent we are all here to support. We are proud that our members have taken a united stand against these practices and are setting a clear standard of fairness for the wider industry to follow.”
By setting out these commitments in a formal framework, AIP and MVT said they aim to reinforce standards of fairness and transparency that could help shape the wider live music ecosystem in the future.
Pictured: Luke Hinton & Beverley Whitrick
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