German distributor H’Art Musik Vertrieb GmbH and its Dutch partner Bertus Distribution have jointly signed a new partnership with London-based Proper Distribution.
The agreement sees Proper consolidate its European export and distribution network, which is claims will result in new efficiencies without compromising its Europe wide reach.
H’Art now assumes exclusive distribution in Germany, Austria and Switzerland for Proper’s clients, while its Dutch partner Bertus covers Benelux and – via its dependencies – France, Italy, Spain, Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovakia. Proper continues to supply the UK market itself.
While the deals allow Proper to distribute its full catalogue via H’Art, Bertus and Border Music, it is not reciprocal – the three European companies’ UK distribution is not covered by the deal.
Bertus’ managing director Jan van Ditmarsch noted: “We’re excited to enter into this new partnership with Proper. A range of good and solid products will strengthen the position of Bertus and H’Art, and at the same time will give Proper an organised and effective gateway into Europe”.
Proper recently signed a new distribution agreement with Border Music for Scandinavia, and Proper MD Drew Hill said the new partnerships positions his firm as a one-stop-shop for pan European distribution, ensuring more efficient coordination of stock, marketing, promotion and catalogue distribution across Europe.
He commented: “We’re delighted to be further enhancing our long established relationships with H’Art and Bertus. Both their reputations in Europe are outstanding, and by consolidating our international network we’re now able to bring improved efficiencies and a consolidated sales strategy to our labels and artists. Together with our deal with Border, this partnership introduces a much needed, truly independent, pan European distribution option to the business.”
Since being established 1988, fully independent Proper Music Distribution has grown to boast UK annual sales of over £25 million. It incorporates UK physical distribution, a worldwide digital service, a label services division and international export networks.
[Pictured L-R: Manuela Nikele (H’Art), Malcolm Mills (Proper Music), Christine Chinetti (Proper Music), Markus Röder (H’Art), Drew Hill (Proper Music)]Music Business Worldwide
