ACS

A group of interested parties which includes ACS has today won a ruling over PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited) with regard to music recordings in retail establishments. The hearing, conducted by The Copyright Tribunal states that PPL’s tariffs for the playing of music are “unreasonable” and that “the previous tariffs in relation to shops and stores, public houses, bars, restaurants and cafes and factories and offices should all be reinstated.”

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We are delighted by the decision of the Copyright Tribunal. We have been campaigning for these charges to be lifted since their inception in 2006 and are please to see that retailers will finally receive a fairer deal on in-store music tariffs.”

The rates previously imposed by PPL saw tariffs for music shops raise by as much as 192%, while tariffs for pubs and restaurants were raised by up to 419%. The reinstatement of the previous rates will include a 10% increase to each fee “to take account of the new broadcasting rights in sound recordings.”

If the ruling is upheld, retailers could benefit from up to £20million in overpaid fees, as well as savings of around £5million per year. However, PPL is currently appealing against the decision.