Will Partnership Extend To U.S.?
Under an expanded agreement, EMI will add digital distribution to physical sales of Warner Music Group repertoire in India and the Middle East, a role it has held since 2005. Turkey has
also been added to partnership. In tueb, WMG markets and distributes EMI in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Korea and Thailand. Both label groups maintain their own direct A&R and promotional presence in all markets.
EMI is openly exploring farming out it's North American brick and mortar distribution to a third party. The expanding relationship between the worlds 3rd and 4th largest label groups would point to WMG as the frontrunner.
In one or more of these countries, EMI is also the exclusive local distributor of several independent labels including Domino, Beggars Banquet, Ministry of Sound and Cooking Vinyl. EMI also distributes Disney’s soundtrack and Hollywood repertoire in the Middle East and Turkey.
Adrian Cheesley, EMI Music’s President - International, says: “These markets have exciting growth potential, especially in digital. We are delighted to be extending our successful relationship with Warner Music to include digital rights to their fantastic artist roster and catalog and to cover Turkey as well.”
John Reid, Vice Chairman, Warner Music International, says: “With us currently serving as EMI’s distributor in South East Asia, and with EMI serving as our distributor in India, the Middle East and Turkey, we have developed a strong partnership that we’re pleased to be expanding with this deal. Since WMG does not have local operations in these territories, it was extremely important that we partner with one of the strongest players in the region, which is why I’m confident that EMI’s efforts, local resources and expertise will be of great benefit to our artists.”
