Universal Revenues Slide 6.2%, Digital Up 8.4%
Universal Music Group’s (UMG) revenues were €4,363 million in 2009 a 6.2% decrease compared to 2008. Digital sales grew 8.4% tempered by softening demand for mobile products in the United States and Japan. Music publishing revenues increased 1.7% and UMG newly acquired merchandising division grew 24.6%
The year end report touted UMG's support
of "Spotify’s premium service accessible on the iPhone
and MusicStation’s launch on the Android platform". but failed to mention Spotify's free ad supported online service or when it would license a US entry. UMG also pointed proudly to its involvement in VEVO.
UMG’s 2009 EBITA of €580 million declined 14.7% at constant currency
compared to 2008. Lower gross margins from declining sales were
partially offset by cost management initiatives, primarily reductions
in marketing and overhead expenses.
How do the total figures in € of increase in digital from and decrease in physical from last year compare? Are they not telling?