The U.K.’s #loverecordstores campaign is returning for a second year on 9/4. Supported by the Association of Independent Music, the day intends to raise awareness of the challenges faced by record stores during the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 220 independent stores will participate in Love Record Stores 2021 across the U.K., including HMV. Fifty-four new vinyl editions will be available on the day, some of which will only be available to pre-order due to the demand for vinyl now outstripping the capacity of global pressing plants.

Artists set to release exclusives for the campaign include Arlo Parks, Mogwai, Sharon Van Etten, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Soundgarden, Hinds, Sonic Youth, Soulwax and Shame.

Although record stores around the country continue to face a number of challenges, the music retail sector has nevertheless been on a steady upward trajectory in recent months thanks to the continued rise in popularity of vinyl. Last year’s inaugural event delivered more than £1m in revenues.

The U.K.’s #loverecordstores campaign is returning for a second year on 9/4. Supported by the Association of Independent Music, the day intends to raise awareness of the challenges faced by record stores during the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 220 independent stores will participate in Love Record Stores 2021 across the U.K., including HMV. Fifty-four new vinyl editions will be available on the day, some of which will only be available to pre-order due to the demand for vinyl now outstripping the capacity of global pressing plants.

Artists set to release exclusives for the campaign include Arlo Parks, Mogwai, Sharon Van Etten, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Soundgarden, Hinds, Sonic Youth, Soulwax and Shame.

Although record stores around the country continue to face a number of challenges, the music retail sector has nevertheless been on a steady upward trajectory in recent months thanks to the continued rise in popularity of vinyl. Last year’s inaugural event delivered more than £1m in revenues.