T his month’s cover story marks Music Inc.’s first deep dive into global MI retail in quite some time. With international trade and the global economy taking center stage, it seemed like a fitting moment to explore how music stores around the world operate. Starting on page 40, we highlight MI retailers from the Neth- erlands, Canada, Norway and the U.K. While cultural nuances differ from country to country, MI retailers in the U.S. and abroad share one common goal: creating a community that fosters more music makers. PERSPECTIVE I BY KATIE KAILUS MI TRANSCENDS GLOBAL BORDERS
One example? Peach Guitars in Col- chester, U.K., which has instilled itself as a community hub for local musicians, hosting live performances, clinics and workshops on its dedicated showroom stage. Recently, the retailer hosted sold- out events with guitarists Joey Landreth and Andy Wood. “Events like these bring people together and remind us why we love doing what we do,” Aiden Milgate, the store’s marketing manager, says on page 48. “That sense of trust and community is what keeps custom- ers coming back, even in a world dominated by huge online platforms.” Situated on the coast of the North Sea
in Norway sits Evenstad Musikk, a full-line dealer, which, despite not putting on festivals or concerts, remains deeply rooted in its community’s musical spirit, with an influence that extends far beyond the walls of its showroom. Instead of centering on events, Evenstad Musikk builds its connection through trust and expertise, meeting customers where they are in their musical pursuits. Whether helping a young musician find their first guitar or navigating a professional through their next synth purchase, the store has become a constant in Norway’s MI landscape. “By giving our customers what they expect and want from us, we get to be a small, but important, part of their musical journey, even though we don’t arrange festivals or do all kinds of crazy stuff,” shares Geir Magnus, owner of Evenstad Musikk, on page 46. “I believe in being consistent and sticking to a model that customers understand. Do the job right the first time and you secure customers coming back.” What became clear as we put together this month’s cover feature is that music retail looks surprisingly similar no matter which corner of the world it’s located in. Whether it’s the U.K., Norway or Austin, Texas, music retailing success comes down to the same fundamentals of knowing your customers, offering the right mix of gear, and creating and fostering a community of music makers. Personalized service, expert guidance and local connections drive loyalty everywhere, proving that the core of MI retail truly transcends interna- tional borders. MI
8 I MUSIC INC. I NOVEMBER 2025
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