sample business plan for small record label

Record Label Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Entertainment Industry » Music Industry » Record Label

Are you about starting a record label online ? If YES, here is a complete sample record label business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Are you a music lover? Did you know that even if you do not have an appealing voice to sing and make money that you can still make money from the industry? If you are an entrepreneur and you love music, one of the easiest ways of making money from the music industry is to start your own music label; and the truth is that it is not difficult to start your own music label from the scratch in any part of the world.

As mentioned earlier, one of the very things that you would be required to bring to the table is to first and foremost have the knack for music.

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And then all other things would fall in place as it were. Those who already have a thriving business in the musical scene know that talent is very key in making it big. This is irrespective of whether you are a performing musician, a studio manager, a disc jockey, et al.

Owning a record label is basically about helping recording artists release their music album or singles to the general public and the process starts with agreeing on a deal or contract and then writing out the music lyrics before entering the studio to start work. Below for a sample record label business plan.

A Sample Record Label Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

In recent time in the music industry, a larger percentage of recording artists have become increasingly dependent on record labels to promote them and increase their consumer base. It is easier for a record label to attract influx of upcoming artists if the record label is well established and recognized.

Record label that are just starting out would have to go out there to search for music talents that can help launch them out. The truth is that it is a win – win situation when a record label discovers a good music talent. The music label will help promote the recording artist and the recording artist also will give publicity to the record label.

The global revenue of the music industry is estimated at 15 billion U.S. dollars in 2013, and that is about the lowest revenue recorded since 2002; of course it is an indication that the record label industry needs to become more creative and leverage on the changing tides in the world of technology.

Even the strong growth in streaming revenues was not enough to stop the music industry globally from experiencing income dropping below US $15bn for the first time in recent years in 2014.

Statistics has it that in 2013 the three largest markets in the music industry, measured by the revenue they generated were the united states of America, Japan and Germany. Hence it is no surprise that the top three record labels who dominate the music industry in the globe are all headquartered in The United States of America.

Recent statistics from the IFPI revealed that overall global record industry revenues dipped by just 0.4% last year – but that was enough to pull the annual tally down from $15.03bn to $14.97bn.

The biggest offenders for the fall were an 8.1% decline in revenues from physical format sales (to around $6.89bn, according to MBW calculations) and an 8.0% decline in download sales (to around $3.56bn).Single track downloads declined by 10.9% in the year, while digital albums sales saw revenues drop by 4.2%.

In the early years of the recording industry, record labels were just the leverage any music artistes need to become successful in the music industry. This is why upcoming artistes or music band sourced for good recording label to sign a contract with.

Well it is important to note that most upcoming artistes or even establish artists ensures that they engage the services of an entertainment lawyer to help them negotiate the terms and condition of the contract. From past experience, no artist wants to sign a contract that will enslave them.

With the advent of the internet, it has now become pretty much easier for music labels to increase their range of operations. A music label with a large follower on social media platforms can easily promote artists under their label. All they need to do is to release free downloads on their website.

If the music is good it wouldn’t be too long before it trends on a global stage. Good example is the famous 2012 dance pop single – the ‘PSY -gangnam style’ from far away South Korea.

One good thing about starting a record label is that even if you decided to start it in the United States of America, your market will not be restricted to artists in the U.S.; the world will be your target market. Many thanks to the internet that has made the world a global village. All you need to do is to strategically position your record label brand on the internet.

2. Executive Summary

Dexterity® Record Label Company is a standard record label company that proposes to be based in 500 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10011, USA.

Our aim of starting this business is to work in tandem with both established and upcoming music artist in the United States of America and other countries of the world to help to launch their musical career or take their musical career to the next level as the case maybe.

Our Head Office will be located in New York City, but we will have our branch offices in major cities in all regions of the United States of America – with the first two years of operation we would have set up our offices in the following locations; Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Dallas, Texas and Boston.

Dexterity® Record Label Company is going to be a self-administered and a self-managed record label / musical company. We will work towards becoming one of the largest managers of reigning musical artist in the United States of America and other parts of the world with musical album hits back to back in the music industry.

We are quite aware that record label / music business requires huge capital base- especially for the purchase of world – class studio equipment and music / artist promotion, which is why we have perfect plans for steady flow of cash from private investors who are interested in working with us.

We can confidently say that we have a robust financial standing and we are ready to take on any challenge that we encounter in the industry.

As part of our plans to make artists under our label and our customers our number one priority and to become one of the leading record label company in New York City, we have perfected plans to work with our clients to deliver music projects that can favorably compete with the best in the industry at an affordable and reasonable price, within the stipulated completion date barring any unforeseen circumstance and also to help artistes under our record label gain international recognition within a short period of time.

Dexterity® Record Label Company is to become a specialist in turning upcoming musical artists into starts / celebrities and already made music artists / starts into mega – super stars. Dexterity® Record Label Company will at all times demonstrate her commitment to sustainability, both individually and as a record label, by actively participating in our communities and integrating sustainable business practices wherever possible.

Dexterity® Record Label Company will be owned majorly by Dexter Clinton and Mack Hamilton. This duo have been able to cut their teeth in the musical industry both at national level and international level. They have appreciable year of experience working with some of the leading international record label companies in the United States of America prior to start their own record label company.

3. Our Products and Services

Dexterity® Record Label Company is going to offer varieties of services within the scope of the music industry in the United States of America. Our intention of starting our record label company is to make profits from the music industry and we will do all that is permitted by the law in the US to achieve our aim and ambition.

Our business offering are listed below;

• Music Recording
• Music Video Shoots
• Promotion of Music Artists / Music Tours
• Sound Production
• Studio Session
• Production of Jingles for Organizations
• Marketing and Sales Music
• Managing of Music Artist
• Setting up of Recording Studios for Clients
• Sell of Musical Equipment
• Music Consulting Services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to help upcoming music artists to become stars and to help established music artists to become mega – super stars
• Our mission as a record label is to build a business that will help our clients achieve their highest dreams within the shortest time possible and to be listed amongst the top 10 record label companies in the world.

Our Business Structure

The fact that we are set to compete with other leading record label companies in the world, means that we must build a business structure that can support our business goal. Dexterity® Record Label Company will build a solid business structure that can support the growth of our business.

We will ensure that we hire competent hands to help us build the business of our dream. Below is the business structure that we will build Dexterity® Record Label Company;

• Chief Executive Officer

Entertainment Lawyer / Legal Secretary

• Talent Hunt Manager

Studio Manager

Music / Record Producer

Sound / Recording Engineer

Admin and HR Manager

Marketing and Sales Executive

Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Office:

• Responsible for providing direction for the firm
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for handling high profile clients and deals
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board
• Responsible for drawing up contracts and other legal documents for the company
• Advise artists and the organization accordingly before signing any musical artists under the company’s label
• Welcomes guests and clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Produces information by transcribing, formatting, inputting, editing, retrieving, copying, and transmitting text, data, and graphics; coordinating case preparation.
• Provides historical reference by developing and utilizing filing and retrieval systems; recording meeting discussions; maintaining transcripts; documenting and maintaining evidence.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.

Tour Coordinator / Talent Hunt Manager

• Responsible for sourcing for music talents and grooming them
• Responsible for coordinating music tours for the company
• Assists in writing music lyrics for music artists
• Handles any other responsibility as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer
• Responsible for tracking hours during studio session and billing clients.
• Responsible for managing the company’s recording studio
• Part of the team responsible for selecting the songs that will be promoted and the songs that will be sold as singles.
• Responsible for recording and producing music and jingles for music artists and clients
• Helps to decide the order the songs will play in throughout the album (i.e. the songs’ track numbers).
• Responsible for choosing top notch album cover for music artists
• Responsible for handle any sound related job for the company; helps achieve certain specific sounds or feelings to portray through that matches with the lyrics.
• Responsible for mixing and producing beats and sounds for our clients; mix the songs into the final version for the music album.
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of studio equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carrying out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Facilitates and coordinates strategic sessions.
• Works directly with clients in a non-advising capacity, such as answering questions, scheduling appointments and making sure all training concerns are properly taken care off
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office activities.
• Once the album is ready, then the marketing team will go out to market and promote the album
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies business opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of music projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients and music artists
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the company
• Serves as internal auditor for the company

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the company’s products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries
• Receives Visitors / clients on behalf of the organization
• Receives parcels / documents for the company
• Handles enquiries via e-mail and phone calls for the organization
• Distributes mails in the organization
• Handles any other duties as assigned my the line manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Dexterity® Record Label Company engaged the services of a core professional in the area of record label and music consulting and structuring to assist the organization in building a standard record label company that can favorably compete with other leading record label company in the United States of America.

Part of what the business consultant did was to work with the management of the company in conducting a SWOT analysis for Dexterity® Record Label Company. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Dexterity® Record Label Company;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team and the state of the art music studio equipment that we have. We have a team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that can make an upcoming music artist a star within a short period of time. We are well positioned and we know we will attract loads of clients from the first day we open our doors for business.

As a new record label company, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and attract some well – established music artists to sign under our label; that is perhaps our major weakness.

• Opportunities:

The opportunities in the music industry are massive and we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that comes our way.

Technology and the internet which of course is a major tool for the advancement and gains achieved in the music industry can also poses a threat to the industry. The truth is that with the advancement of technology, it is now easier for new record labels to come into the industry and compete with existing record label.

The internet and social media platforms now makes it pretty easier for record labels both legally registered and un – registered to promote their company and attract new artist as well. Just like any other business, government unfavorable government policies and also economic downturn can pose a threat and challenge to the survival of a record label company.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

Entrepreneurs who are venturing into the music industry are coming in with creativity and good business skills. The fact that revenue is nose – diving in the industry does not in a way stop some record label from declaring profits year in year out.

The factors that is responsible for encouraging entrepreneurs to start their own music recording label is the fact that they can easily become an instant celebrity on the global stage if they can successfully produce a world class music artist.

The trend in the music industry is that most recording label companies are now leveraging on the internet to spread their tentacles and increase their revenues; they know that it pays not to concentrate only in the U.S. market. They are now more concern in spreading the marketing of their record label to the rest part of the world.

8. Our Target Market

When it comes to music, there are no exemptions to who you can sell to. Different genre of music appeals to different group of people. Christians generally will prefer gospel music, older people naturally prefer countryside music and highlife, youths prefer pop, reggae, rhythm and blues et al. That is basically how the market is segmented.

But when it comes to sourcing for recording artist to sign on to your record label, you will probably get a good catch from the 16 – 35 age bracket. They are the group of people that are that are ready to music career. People outside that age bracket are either too old to start pursuing a music career or they are too young to consider pursuing a career as a musician.

Over and above, our target market cuts across people of different class and people from all walks of life. We are coming into the industry with a business concept that will enable us work with both established music artists and upcoming music artists in the United States and in other countries of the world. In other words, our target market is the musicians and aspiring musicians in the United States of America and subsequently other parts of the world.

Our competitive advantage

The level of competition in the record label industry is on the increase as the years roll by. Which is why in the 1970s and 1980s, there were consolidation in the record industry which led to almost all major labels being owned by a very few multinational companies. The development led to CDs production to flow through a handful of sources, with the majority of the sales going through the “big three” record labels.

Dexterity® Record Label Company might be a new entrant into the record label / music industry in the United States of America, but we are coming into the industry with core professionals and of course a standard world – class recording studio with the best equipment in the industry. We will ensure that we give all artists under our label good value for their money, time and talent; these are part of what will count as a competitive advantage for us.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups consulting firm) in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Dexterity® Record Label Company is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the music industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to attract music artists that will sign under our record label. Dexterity® Record Label Company will generate income by offering the following services;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain when it comes to music; music never dies and the demand for good music will continue to grow. This goes to show that any record label that is known to always produce good music will continue to attract talented music artists and that will sure translate to increase in revenue generation for the record label.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in the U.S. and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow the business and our clientele base beyond New York City, New York to other states in the U.S. and even the global market.

We have been able to critically examine the business consulting market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to startups in New York.

Below is the sales projection for Dexterity® Record Label Company, it is based on the location of our business and other factors as it relates to record label start – ups in the United States;

• First Year-: $75,000
• Second Year-: $250,000
• Third Year-: $750,000

N.B : This projection is done based on facts and figures that are obtainable in the music industry.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are aware that when one commences a record label, the profits might not come in immediately, but if there is continuity in the business, it wouldn’t be too long before one gains fame and fortune. All it takes to gain recognition in the music industry is to nurture a world – class music artist under your label.

We are mindful of the fact that there is stiffer competition amongst record labels in the United States of America; hence we have been able to hire some of the best business developer to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the music industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall goal of the organization. We will also ensure that our excellent music production / top class music speaks for us in the market place; we want to build a standard record label company that will leverage on word of mouth advertisement from satisfied clients / artists.

Our business goal is to grow our record label to become one of the top 10 record label company in the United States of America, which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in the U.S but in the world stage as well.

Dexterity® Record Label Company is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to organizations and key stake holders in the music industry in New York and other parts of the U.S.
• Organize music talent hunt shows to source for raw music talents
• Advertise our business in relevant magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local music expos, seminars, and concerts et al
• Create different packages for different category of music artists (clients) in order to work with their budgets and still produce top notch music for them
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business and to sell or music
• Engage in direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from our loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with brand and publicity specialist to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to take the music industry by storm which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our record label company.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise our record label company;

• Place adverts on both print and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant TV shows and radio programs
• Maximize our official website to promote our business
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook ,Twitter, LinkedIn, Badoo, Google+ and other platforms (music online forums) to promote our business.
• Offer Pro Bono services as part of our community social responsibility (Organize community based musical talent hunt shows)
• Ensure that our banners are well positioned during our musical tours
• Brand all our official cars / buses and ensure that our trademark label is boldly printed in all our music album covers and CDs et al

List of Equipment Needed to Start a Record Label

Here is some of the key equipment and musical gadgets that we would need to set up our record label company;

• Mixing console
• Multi – track recorder
• Microphones
• Reference monitors, which are loudspeakers with a flat frequency response
• Acoustic drum kit
• Digital audio workstation
• Music workstation
• On Air or Recording Light
• Outboard effects, such as compressors, reverbs, or equalizers
• Audio interfaces
• Effects racks
• CD duplicator
• Supply of CD

12. Our Pricing Strategy

It is important to point out that, though, record studio charge by the hour billing, so it is the responsibility of the record producer to ensure that set target are met within the stipulated time. The more time you spend on the studio, the more money you would have to pay.

No doubt, hourly billing for music studios is a long – time tradition in the industry. However, for some types of music / record contracts, flat fees are adopted. As a result of this, Dexterity® Record Label Company will charge our old clients (artists) a flat fee and charge new clients (new music artists) hourly when they make use of our music studio to record their music or produce music beats for their albums.

At Dexterity® Record Label Company, we will keep our fees below the average market rate for all of our clients by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to start – ups, nonprofits, cooperatives, and small social enterprises who engage our services to help to produce musical jingles for advert purposes.

• Payment Options

Dexterity® Record Label Company, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

The cost of setting up a recording label company to a larger extent has reduced from what it used to be; many thanks to the advancement of technology and perhaps the internet. These days it is now easier to see people set up a recording studio in their house. All they need to do is to register a recording label and pronto! They’ll be in business.

Basically, it is not expensive starting a record label company in the United States of America. The amount required to start a record label company may vary slightly from country to country and from states to states. Part of the factors that can influence the start – up cost of a record label is the amount needed to rent or lease a facility, the cost of the equipment you would need and the money needed to brand your business et al.

On more serious note, starting your own record label is to a large extent dependent on your preference and budget. You could budget and spend millions of dollars, or you could choose to spend moderately; far below a million dollar. When it comes to purchasing microphones and head phones, we will go for Neumann u87; it will cost us about $2000 or more.

For mixer, we will opt for the Euphonix or any other brand of our choice. But Euphonix is great (especially with is sweet sounding preamp and on board compressors). It will cost us about $30,000 or more. On the alternative, we can choose to go for purely digital and skip the mixer altogether. This means that we will need a good audio inter face with multiple inputs. 12 stereo pairs minimum. The emu 1820m is a good one.

Then cables (nothing else but mogami cables. these are the best audio cable in the market for now; although we may explore other options). We would need to create budget for pre amp. Avalon is perhaps our best bet and we can get it for about $2500 or less.

We have also prepared a good budget for monitor; monitor is one of the most important gadgets we would need in starting our own record label and record studio. We have made provision for a Yamaha monitor; it is simply one of the best we can get in the market.

When it comes to acquiring a computer, we just have to budget for high end computer designed for such purpose. It is important for computer to have a very large memory, high end graphic card, and 2.6 GHz quad core processor and we will search for good software to work with.

Essentially, this is the area we are looking towards spending our start – up capital on;

• The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in New York – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license – $2,500
• The Amount needed to acquire a suitable Office facility with enough space for standard music studio in a business district 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) – $40,000.
• The Cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al) – $2,000
• The cost for equipping the music studio with the required gadgets – $100,000
• The Cost of Launching your official Website – $600
• Budget for paying at least 5 employees for 3 months and utility bills – $100,000
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $2,500
• Miscellaneous – $1,000

Going by the report from the research and feasibility studies, we will need about $300,000 to set up a small scale but standard record label company in the United States of America.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Dexterity® Record Label Company

Dexterity® Record Label Company is going to start as a private business that will be solely owned by Dexter Clinton and Mack Hamilton. Both of the will be the financial of the business, but may likely welcome other partners later which is why they have decided to restrict the sourcing of his start – up capital to 3 major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $60,000 and soft loan from family members $40,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $200,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

It is easier for businesses to survive when they have steady flow of business deals / customers patronizing their products and services. We are aware of this which is why we have decided to offer a wide range of music services and also to work with both upcoming music artists and well established music artist.

We know that if we continue to produce hit songs and albums, there will be steady flow of income for the organization. Our key sustainability and expansion strategy is to ensure that we only hire competent employees, create a conducive working environment and employee benefits for our staff members.

We know that if we implement our business strategies, we will grow our record label / music business beyond New York City, New York to other states in the U.S in record time.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Renting of Office Facility: Completed
• Building of Music Studio: In Progress
• Intellectual Property Protection and Record Label Trademark: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founder: Completed
• Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed studio / musical gadgets, furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry: In Progress

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8 Essentials for a Record Label Business Plan

In this article we look at the eight elements that make up a record label business plan, and work through the template providing examples you can edit for your own record label .

Writing a business plan

Running a successful record label is like running any other successful business, first and foremost you need a plan.

Every business I have started has begun with a plan. It doesn't need to be fifty pages worth of the minutiae account details but it is important to write down what your goals are for the first 12 months.

It's not just the final result that is important, the  process of creating a business plan is equally important as it forces you to make realistic decisions on how you are going to move forward and make the label a success . 

“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail“

- Benjamin Franklin -

We can keep things simple and the whole document can be no longer than 6 brief pages. The main goal of the plan is to help clearly define what your brand will look like, which areas of music you want to focus on, and create a short summary that you can use to explain the label to new industry contacts.

In some countries you need a business plan if you are opening a business bank account. Some distributors also require a business plan before considering working with you, and you will definitely need one if you are an electronic record label and want a Beatport label account.

The good thing is that we have created The Label Machine business plan template that you can follow, which includes plenty of examples you can edit and customize yourself which will result in a comprehensive business plan for your label!

I would suggest before starting a label that you have at least three releases planned, with the first one ready to go.  By ready to go, I mean you have a finished single or EP of music that is fully mixed down, mastered and ready to go out to the public without any more changes. The business plan will focus on these first three releases.

As you progress at The Label Machine, your business plan will change too, and it should. It is meant as a reference document that you can use to show others that you have a plan and well thought out goals.

Essential Record Label Business Plan Template

Download the full record label template to follow along with this article, including examples to edit for your own record label.

Download the template and open in your document editor and then we’ll go through each of the sections.

Below is a brief description of each section. Follow along and edit each section as we go along.

This is the title section and front page of your business plan. This simply states your 

• Record label name
• Business address
• Email address
• Phone number

This is the section that will summarise the main objectives of your label. This section will actually be written last. After you have completed the rest of the document, you need to come back and s ummarise it into a short paragraph here.

Zonderling Records is an electronic record label based out of Seattle, that aims to represent a genre of music heavy influenced by early rave, garage, jungle, and grime. We will produce limited edition runs of vinyl via vinylised.com, use interesting marketing ideas such as cassette mixtapes alongside traditional press and marketing channels.

2. Business overview

Introduction:  In this section you want to introduce the key people who are involved in the label and what experience, qualifications and training they might have, along with where you will be based and the future goals of the record label.

Joe and Rich have been involved with dance music for a long time and have over 4 years experience in music production and running small music related businesses. After releasing on various record labels in the past, the next logical step, to take their careers in the music business to the next level is to start a record label. The label will be Seattle based to begin with, but has the potential to be based out in LA within a few years of trading. Music will be the only product sold to begin with, but eventually the record label will be transformed into a brand big enough to sell clothing and other non-music related products .

Current position:  This is a summary of where you are right now with your music plans .

So far, Zondiling Records has the first release signed which is a Remix EP of Joe and Rich’s previous releases. ‘Juke da Luke’ and 'Pressure Fresh' have been singled out as potential first outside signings amongst other potentials such as ‘Idle Kids’ and ‘Origins of 90’

Growth plan:  This is a summary explaining how you aim to grow your record label with your financial goals

After releasing our first three EP’s we will expand into more releases from other artists, pulling remix favours to associate as many established acts to validate the label as possible. Using Joe and Rich’s releases will help to attract an established audience to the label initially. After a year, we aim to be signing artists exclusively under 360 deals and pulling in profit from the labels merchandise as well.

3. Strengths, Opportunities and Core Values

Strengths and Opportunities: This is where you will list your strengths and opportunities as a record label. It gives you an opportunity to create a USP and critical success factors . If you have something unique that will ensure success, such as a link to a key industry contact, or opportunity, this is where you should list it.

Strengths: -Understanding of the current music landscape via our current DJing bookings -Links to multiple artists with established fan bases -Advise and industry support via The Label Machine

Opportunities: -Access to industry database, press and music industry contacts -Access to other artists in local area

Core values:  What is important to you as a label? Are you going to be pushing underground music , or are you pushing experimental music? Is this to release your own album to support a tour, or are you interested in working with more mainstream music and artists?

-To build a brand that people can trust and turn to for good quality music -To have the confidence to push new music as opposed to just following recent trends -To build on personal relationships within the music industry in order to create a successful brand that people trust and want to be associated with

4. Business strategy

Outline your business strategy for the first five years. These are your tangible goals . How many releases do you aim to have? Do you want to sign new artists? When do you aim to break even on the revenue? 

As a bare minimum your goals should aim to release at least 3 singles or EP’s in your first year if you are a DJ or band, and 6-8 records of you aim to sign artists to your label. I would also aim to be breaking even from 12 months of your first release so the label is supporting itself financially .

The 3-5 year goals are what you will be doing should you achieve your first 1-2 years goals. These goals that are more flexible, and are likely to change but ensure you do write goals of where you intend to go.

1-2 Years -To have a steady flow of quality releases, building the labels reputation. -To have discovered and signed at least 2 exclusive acts to the label. -To have broken even on all costings

3-5 Years -To have a full roster of exclusive artists releasing under Zonderling Records. -To have had at least 3 overall Beatport number ones within their relative categories. -To be hosting smaller stages at festivals worldwide. -To have office space in either London, Bristol or LA with 3 or more staff members.

5. Distribution and Label Products

List your distributor and any other label products you aim to offer at the label such as merchandise or running events. 

Distribution channels:  Who will you distribute your music through?

Music distribution to all major stores of iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Amazon, and Google Play via the DistroKid distribution platform.

Find the best distributor now

Use this handy tool to find your ideal distribution partner

Events (optional) If you are doing events, who will run the events and how will they be promoted ?

Label events will be arranged with our contact ‘Zeal Promotions’ throughout North America, with our focus being on our home state Washington. Events will be promoted through local and national media coverage via ‘3rd Eye PR’

Merchandising (optional) If you are doing merchandising, who will be responsible? Where will you sell and manufacture your merchandise? What prices will you use?

Abbie Street will organise and implement the merchandise for the label. It will be hosted on Shopify website, and manufacturing will be carried out by a print-to-order manufacturer based in Seattle.

6. Label Management and Operations

This is where you list who will be managing the label and any other team members you will have. You can also list here any key partners you will use, such as The Label Machine, merchandise companies, or management companies.

Label Management Team

Joe Stone – Label Manager

• Responsible for A&R, signing and managing new artists
• Managing the music distribution and royalties
• Administrating and registering the catalogue

Rich Fever – Marketing Manager

• Responsible for online marketing and PR activities for releases
• Overseeing the artwork and marketing asset creations

Abbie Street – Merchandise Manager

• Organise and implementing the merchandise for the label.
• Maintaining the Shopify website
• Fulfilling the manufacturing and shipping

7. Marketing

What are your marketing goals, objectives, targets and promotional activities for the label? You will want to answer these questions in the sections below.

Goals and objectives Describe your goals and objectives around the marketing; list the campaigns and plans that you have in place and your strategies for the future.

-Research blogs and press publications that support your genre of music to create label brand recognition -Develop innovative marketing plans that utilise chatbots and other cutting edge technologies to build an audience -Increase sales through social media campaigns and PR strategies -Increase awareness of artists and label with 3rd party revenue streams such film, TV and game sync deals

Target Market Here is where you can clearly define your target market . Important to put the genre of music you will be releasing, locations and age group as a minimum.

We aim to sell to all audiences, but with a more biased approach by making sure we appeal to the up and coming bass music markets such as the U.S.A. and a core demographic of end users between the age of 14 and 30

Advertising and promotion activities Describe what advertising platforms you will use to promote the label and the releases. You might want to list any  creative ideas to get the brand out there, any PR companies you might use for your first release, and which social media platforms you will promote on. Click here to learn how to build your own music PR machine in a day.

-Using physical assets such as vinyl and cassette mixtapes we will create a rich online experience based on real life products, which we believe is missing from a lot of digital labels today. -We will use a DJ promotion service ‘The 6th Degree’ to garner maximum DJ support from the industry. -We will run Instagram promoted stories and sponsored Facebook posts to create awareness of new releases to fans of similar genres.

8. Financial budget and forecasts

This is the section where you can provide financial budget and forecasts, such as:

• Startup Label Expenses
• Release Expenses
• Optional Expenses
• Cashflow Forecast
• Optional Revenue Streams
• Profit and Loss Projection

There is a  budget template and course on how to create your budget that will go into more detail. Once you have completed this and have your budget you can copy and paste the summary page into this section of the business plan.

Writing a business plan isn't easy, but with the downloadable template (which includes extra examples not here in the blog) you should be armed with enough information to put a great record label business plan together. 

And don't put off starting! Start today, and spend just 15 mins working on your plan, you'll be surprised how much you will get done and you'll be in a much better place to start your record label. 

Prefer to watch a video? Check out Nick's business plan walkthrough below.

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Here is a free business plan sample for a record label

If you're passionate about music and envision launching your own record label but are unsure of the first steps to take, you've come to the perfect spot.

In the content that follows, we will present you with a comprehensive sample business plan tailored for a record label.

As you might be aware, a meticulously developed business plan is crucial for any aspiring entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, objectives, and strategies for your venture.

To craft a winning plan with ease and precision, you can utilize our record label business plan template. Additionally, our specialists are on hand to review and refine it at no extra cost.

How to draft a great business plan for your record label?

A good business plan for a record label must capture the unique dynamics of the music industry.

Initially, it is crucial to provide a comprehensive overview of the music market. This includes current statistics and the identification of emerging trends within the industry, as illustrated in our record label business plan template .

Your business plan should articulate your vision clearly. Define your niche (such as a specific music genre), your target audience (independent artists, established musicians, or both), and your label's distinctive brand (innovative, traditional, genre-specific, etc.).

Market analysis is a key component. This requires an in-depth look at the competitive landscape, understanding the shifts in music consumption, and recognizing the potential fanbase for your artists.

For a record label, it's imperative to detail your artist roster and catalog. Describe the type of artists you aim to sign, the genres you will focus on, and how you plan to support and develop your talent.

The operational plan should outline the structure of your label, including A&R (Artists and Repertoire) processes, recording and production facilities, distribution channels, and partnerships with music platforms.

Quality of production, artist development, and intellectual property management are critical areas to emphasize for a record label.

Marketing and sales strategies must be addressed next. How will you promote your artists and releases? Consider your approach to PR campaigns, social media marketing, touring, merchandise, and fan engagement.

Incorporating digital strategies is non-negotiable in the modern music industry. This includes streaming services, digital downloads, and a robust online presence.

The financial section is vital. It should encompass the initial investment, revenue projections, cost analysis, and the point of profitability.

Record labels often deal with variable income streams, so a thorough understanding of your financials is essential. For assistance, refer to our financial forecast for a record label .

Compared to other business plans, a record label's plan must pay special attention to the rapidly changing technology in music distribution, the importance of intellectual property rights, and the strategies for artist development and branding.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you to define your strategy and operations but also to attract artists, partners, and investors.

Investors and lenders are looking for a solid market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a clear plan for artist management and growth.

By presenting a detailed and substantiated plan, you showcase your knowledge of the music industry and your commitment to the success of your record label.

To achieve these goals efficiently, you can start with our record label business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a record label

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a record label .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The music industry is a dynamic and evolving sector with significant impact.

As of recent estimates, the global recorded music market revenue is valued at over 20 billion dollars, with projections indicating continued growth driven by streaming services and digital sales.

In the United States, there are thousands of record labels, ranging from major companies to independent labels, contributing to a multi-billion-dollar industry that plays a vital role in the country's cultural and economic landscape.

These figures underscore the record label's critical position in the entertainment sector and its substantial contribution to the global economy.

Current trends in the music industry show a shift towards digital consumption, with streaming services dominating the market.

The rise of social media platforms has revolutionized music promotion, allowing artists to engage directly with their fans and build their brands independently.

There is also a growing interest in vinyl records and other physical formats, as consumers seek tangible connections with music in the digital age.

Artists are increasingly exploring innovative revenue streams, such as live streaming performances, merchandise, and fan-funded projects.

Moreover, there is a heightened focus on diversity and inclusion within the industry, with movements advocating for equal representation and opportunities for underrepresented groups.

These trends highlight the music industry's adaptability and responsiveness to the changing preferences and values of modern consumers.

Success Factors

The success factors for a record label are multifaceted and crucial for its sustainability.

First and foremost, discovering and nurturing talent is at the heart of a record label's success. Signing artists with unique sounds and strong market potential is essential.

Effective marketing and promotion strategies are also key to ensuring that artists and their music reach the widest possible audience.

Building strong relationships with distribution channels, including streaming services, radio stations, and retailers, is vital for maximizing sales and exposure.

Adaptability to the rapidly changing music landscape, including technological advancements and consumer behavior shifts, is necessary for long-term viability.

Lastly, a commitment to artist development and support, coupled with sound financial management, will help a record label thrive in a competitive and ever-changing industry.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our record label project is designed to cater to the evolving landscape of the music industry, focusing on the discovery and promotion of artists who bring unique sounds and innovative music. Situated in a vibrant cultural hub, our label will specialize in a variety of genres, with an emphasis on supporting independent musicians and providing them with a platform to reach a wider audience.

We aim to harness the power of digital distribution, social media marketing, and live events to showcase our artists' talents. Our commitment is to produce high-quality recordings that capture the essence of each artist's creativity and style.

Our record label aspires to be a beacon for music innovation, nurturing talent and delivering fresh and compelling music to a global audience.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our record label lies in our dedication to nurturing and promoting independent artists with a distinct voice and sound. We offer a partnership that extends beyond traditional record deals, providing comprehensive support including production, marketing, and distribution.

Our commitment to artistic integrity, combined with cutting-edge promotion strategies, ensures that our musicians receive the exposure and recognition they deserve. We strive to create a collaborative community where artists can thrive and fans can discover new music that resonates with them.

Our label is more than a business; it's a movement to empower musicians and redefine the music industry by prioritizing talent and authenticity over commercial conformity.

Project Owner

The project owner is a music industry veteran with a passion for discovering and fostering musical talent. With a background in A&R, music production, and artist management, they possess the expertise to identify potential hits and guide artists to success.

With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by independent musicians, the owner is committed to creating a supportive environment that allows artists to focus on their craft while the label handles the complexities of the music business.

Driven by a love for music and a desire to disrupt the industry with a fresh approach, the project owner is the visionary leader of the label, dedicated to making a lasting impact on the music scene and providing a voice for the next generation of groundbreaking artists.

The Market Study

Target market.

The target market for our record label is segmented into various groups.

Firstly, we have music enthusiasts who are constantly seeking new and unique sounds, especially from emerging and independent artists.

Additionally, there are fans of specific genres that our label specializes in, who are dedicated to supporting and discovering artists within that niche.

Another segment includes aspiring musicians looking for a label that can provide personalized attention and support to kickstart their careers.

Lastly, industry professionals such as music producers, event organizers, and other labels could form strategic partnerships, enhancing our reach and influence in the music scene.

SWOT Analysis

Our SWOT analysis for the record label identifies several key factors.

Strengths include a dedicated team with a keen ear for talent, strong industry connections, and a commitment to artist development and creative freedom.

Weaknesses might involve the challenge of breaking new artists into a saturated market and the financial risks associated with artist promotion and production costs.

Opportunities can be found in the rise of digital music platforms, which can amplify our artists' reach, and in the potential for live event promotion as a revenue and exposure stream.

Threats include the rapidly changing music industry landscape, the dominance of major labels, and the volatility of music trends and consumer tastes.

Competitor Analysis

Our analysis of competitors within the music industry indicates a mix of large-scale and independent record labels.

Major labels have the advantage of extensive resources and established distribution channels, while other indie labels offer a more grassroots and artist-centric approach.

To compete effectively, we must leverage our unique selling points, such as our genre specialization, artist-friendly contracts, and innovative marketing strategies.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors will be crucial in carving out our niche and establishing a loyal artist and fan base.

Competitive Advantages

Our record label's competitive advantages lie in our passion for music and commitment to our artists.

We focus on discovering and nurturing talent, providing them with the resources and guidance to develop their artistry and reach their full potential.

Our hands-on approach ensures that artists feel supported and valued, which in turn fosters loyalty and long-term partnerships.

Additionally, our adaptability to the ever-evolving digital music landscape allows us to stay ahead of trends and offer our artists innovative platforms for exposure.

You can also read our articles about: - how to start a record label: a complete guide - the customer segments of a record label - the competition study for a record label

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the record label is designed to establish a strong foothold in the music industry.

In the first year, we will concentrate on talent acquisition and establishing a solid artist roster, while also building our brand identity and reputation.

The second year will focus on expanding our distribution channels, both digital and physical, and increasing our presence in key music markets.

In the third year, we aim to diversify our music portfolio, explore cross-promotional opportunities with other entertainment sectors, and consider international expansion.

Throughout this period, we will remain dedicated to discovering and promoting innovative music, supporting our artists, and staying ahead of industry trends to ensure the growth and success of our label.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our record label targets emerging and established artists seeking innovative production and promotion strategies.

Our value proposition lies in providing a platform for artists to develop their careers, utilizing cutting-edge marketing techniques, and offering a fair and transparent profit-sharing model.

We distribute music through various channels, including streaming services, physical sales, and live performances, relying on our industry connections and marketing expertise.

Key activities include talent scouting, music production, marketing, and artist management.

Our revenue streams are generated from music sales, streaming royalties, merchandise, and live event promotions, while our costs are associated with production, artist advances, and promotional activities.

Access a complete and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is centered on creating a strong brand presence and fostering a loyal fan base for our artists.

We aim to leverage social media platforms, music videos, and strategic collaborations to increase visibility and engagement.

Our label will also host showcase events and participate in music festivals to promote our artists and releases.

Additionally, we will partner with influencers and other brands to expand our reach and tap into new audiences.

Our commitment to artist development and innovative marketing will help us stand out in a competitive industry.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our record label is focused on mitigating risks associated with the volatile nature of the music industry.

We will carefully select artists with growth potential and diversify our music portfolio to reduce dependency on any single genre or artist.

Our contracts will be structured to balance investment with potential returns, and we will maintain a flexible approach to adapt to changing market trends.

We will also secure comprehensive insurance to protect against legal and financial liabilities related to our business activities.

Our priority is to build a sustainable label that supports artists and delivers quality music to our audience while managing risks effectively.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are passionate about launching a record label that nurtures talent and introduces fresh sounds to the music scene.

With our strategic approach to artist development, marketing, and distribution, we believe we can carve out a unique space in the industry.

We are excited to empower artists and deliver exceptional music experiences to audiences worldwide.

We are prepared to adapt to the industry's dynamics and are optimistic about the future of our record label.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a record label - the marketing strategy for a record label

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a record label and our financial plan for a record label .

Initial expenses for our record label include setting up a professional recording studio, acquiring high-quality sound equipment, securing licenses and rights for music production, hiring experienced music producers and sound engineers, as well as costs related to brand creation and launching targeted marketing campaigns to promote our artists and releases.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough analysis of the music industry trends, digital streaming growth, and the potential fanbase for the genres we aim to produce.

We anticipate progressively increasing sales, starting modestly and growing as the reputation of our record label and the popularity of our signed artists develop.

The projected income statement indicates expected revenues from music sales, streaming, licensing, and artist performances, production costs (studio time, equipment maintenance, artist advances), and operating expenses (rent, marketing, salaries, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit crucial for evaluating the profitability of our business over time.

The projected balance sheet reflects assets specific to our business, such as studio equipment, music catalogs, and liabilities including debts and anticipated expenses.

It shows the overall financial health of our record label at the end of each period.

Our projected cash flow budget details incoming and outgoing cash flows, allowing us to anticipate our cash needs at any given time. This will help us effectively manage our finances and avoid cash flow problems.

The projected financing plan lists the specific financing sources we plan to use to cover our startup expenses.

The working capital requirement for our record label will be closely monitored to ensure we have the necessary liquidity to finance our daily operations, including artist development, production costs, and salary payments.

The break-even point specific to our project is the level of sales needed to cover all our costs, including startup expenses, and start making a profit.

It will indicate when our business will be profitable.

Performance indicators we will track include the profit margin rate on our music sales, the liquidity ratio to assess our ability to cover financial obligations, and the return on investment to measure the effectiveness of our capital invested in the project.

These indicators will help us evaluate the financial health and overall success of our record label.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a record label .

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How To Write a Successful Record Label Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for record label businesses that want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every record label owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Record Label Business Plan Template

What is a Record Label Business Plan?

A record label business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Record Label Business Plan?

A record label business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Record Label Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful record label business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a record label business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your record label company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your record label business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your record label firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen record label business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a record label business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the record label industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, the clients of a record label business may include brick and mortar stores, digital music retailers (e.g., iTunes, Amazon), and streaming services (e.g., Spotify, Pandora).

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or record label services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Below are sample competitive advantages your record label business may have:

• Established name and credibility in the industry
• Strong relationships with artists and other industry players
• Robust marketing and promotional capabilities
• Proven ability to create chart-topping hits
• Extensive catalog of music

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or, you may promote your record label business via PR or at industry events.

Operations Plan

This part of your record label business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a record label business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include winning a certain number of Grammy Awards or signing a contract with a major artist.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific record label industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Record Label Firm

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Record Label Firm

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup record label business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Record Label Firm

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your record label company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

Remember to keep your business plan updated as your company grows and changes. Review it at least once a year to make sure it is still relevant and accurate.  

Finish Your Record Label Business Plan in 1 Day!

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