IMPALA launches year-long programme to put the spotlight on independent sector for 20th anniversary

16 November 2020 - Press release

Today marks the official 20th anniversary of IMPALA, the European independent music companies association. From a handful of founding members, the European trade body has grown to represent over 5,000 independent music companies and national associations in 30 European countries.

IMPALA will kick off its celebrations with a year-long series of posts, interviews, playlists and events hosted on a dedicated IMPALA 20 blog, starting this week with the history of IMPALA in 20 milestones.

The IMPALA 20 programme will also put the spotlight on the work that goes on behind the scenes. A series of 20-minute interviews with key independents will start next month. IMPALA’s top priorities will also be featured such as Covid 19, diversity and inclusion, Brexit, sustainability, new opportunities online, access to finance, as well as implementing the European copyright directive and other key areas of work.

Recent developments will be a big focus, including last week’s decision to boost culture in the EU budget by over half a billion euros, and IMPALA’s ongoing work to make sure European performance money is properly distributed.
 
Helen Smith, IMPALA Executive Chair, commented: “IMPALA’s members can look back at our 20 milestones with a sense of achievement. This year alone has seen a seismic shift. Looking forward, the IMPALA 20 blog will put the spotlight on what we do behind the scenes to increase value for independent labels and artists.”
 
IMPALA Chair Francesca Trainini: “More than ever, this is a crucial time for the independents.  My role as chair is to steer the ship as we navigate the next chapter, choppy waters and all. Top priorities for me include making sure the whole sector benefits from IMPALA’s work and sustainable growth.”