Rough Trade:1990s

What problems did Rough Trade incur at the start of the 1990s?

Rough Trade had reached its financial peak, cash flow management had determined Rough Trades fate. By December 1990 Rough Trades cash flow had grounded to a halt. Also in December 1990, two thirds of the staff were axed as a result of poor financial management. On the 1^st of June 1991 the company had no choice but to cease trading.

What effect did this have on the record label and distribution?

Rough Trade had written the rulebook for independent production and distribution; it had become one of the most successful independent music companies in the music industry. The work of Rough Trade had inspired so many other independent music companies to be created. The independent companies owned 40% of the music industry, they had ‘reshaped the musical landscape’. However, the financial down fall of the company meant the company was split up and sold off to try and deal with the payments they were unable to make.

How did major record labels branch out into the independent music scene?

The major record labels began signing the artist who were associated with the smaller independent companies. This meant relationships began to grow between the two sides of the music company and groups of independent companies would join together.

What actions were taken to revive Rough Trade?

Whilst Rough Trade was no longer in business…

Geoff Travis and Jeannette Lee remained working together; they were introduced to Jarvis Cocker, and afterwards they soon began managing him.  In the same year 1993 they had learnt from their mistakes and successfully managed Pulps legal and financial position. They had learnt how to sustain chart positions and as a result received 5 consecutive top 10 singles. The profit made from managing Pulp, allowed Travis and Lee to buy back the ‘Rough Trade’ name and in 2001, after 25 years since Rough Trade had begun it was back in business.