Rough Trade's presence in Nottingham has been a big part of the local music scene and I wanted to ask them about their future after the pandemic. Head of Retail, Kyle Hougham took time out to discuss......
Thanks for the interview Kyle and all respect for you staying open whenever possible through these difficult times. How has the pandemic affected a visit to Rough Trade?
Thank you - we've been overwhelmed with the support since the first restrictions in March and can happily say we've survived and even, improved some areas in the past few months. Naturally the measures in place for other retailers are in place here but with the large space we have we've been able to operate as normal. Live music is a big miss though.
I think this must be Rough Trade's 6th year in Nottingham and I cannot now imagine a music scene without you guys around. Are you in a position to say that Rough Trade will still be with Nottingham folks in 2021?
Yes, 100%. The store in Nottingham opened in 2014 and was a long-term project. We're just getting started!
That's great to hear and can customers still buy from Rough Trade online?
Yes roughtrade.com has been massive for us during lockdown and we believe the increased demand will continue. The option to collect in-store and save on postage is a big plus for regulars too.
I've heard about the Rough Trade membership scheme, can you explain what it is?
Sure, the subscription to our Album of The Month pick is great for anyone who loves music. The package arrives blind each month on either CD or LP and includes something special or exclusive - a nice surprise, which can be few and far between at the moment.
What are your thoughts on the music scene in 2021 and do you think the growth in vinyl will continue?
Yes, all indicators show there is growth ahead for us, even if indeed the market globally plateaus somewhat. The physical element to music is even more celebrated and complemented by streaming/social media in our experience.
I'm often asked by artists if local record stores will sell their cd's and vinyl. Is this something you can provide and who should local artists contact to discuss their release?
We have always been close to the co-op / DIY and 'over the counter' DNA that Rough Trade was built upon, so we do well with SOR (Sale or Return) and local artists. I'd always try and go deeper than simply taking two copies of a CDR though - can we host an event with you? Co-promote a live date? Can you sell merch direct in our live space? Sometimes the smaller SOR requests fit much better around an event, in our experience.
What artists should we look out for in 2021?
Black Country New Road, Squid, even Shame and Viagra Boys - both 'established' to some but will be much bigger with releases early 2021. Loads more to name but Rough Trade will be here for all of it.
Find out more on Rough Trade with the following links;
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