The vinyl market - France

The first vinyl records were marketed in 1948. Long sidelined by the advent of CDs, the vinyl market is now growing again. Also known as a microsillon record, "galette" or black record, vinyl is a sound recording medium. It consists of two engraved sides. Each side has a microscopic "spiral" groove running through it, beginning on the outside and ending towards the center of the record. Vinyl records are generally black, but colored (green, red, white, blue, etc.) or transparent records are also available. Some even have a picture incorporated on one or both sides: these are called picture-discs. They are designed to be played on a turntable or an electrophone. More than just a fad, the vinyl revival is gaining momentum, as evidenced by the proliferation of fairs, blogs and collectors' forums in France. The vinyl market is now enabling physical music distributors to compete with the major online streaming platforms. Vinyl now appeals to a younger clientele, attracted by vintage. In 2022, 59% of vinyl buyers were under 35. On a global scale, the market is also enjoying a second wind: estimated at 1.7 billion euros in 2022, it is set to grow at a rate of 8.7% a year until 2028. This study focuses mainly on the market for 33 and 45 rpm records.