Musical Instrument Stores

Musical Instrument Stores

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry sell new musical instruments, sheet music, and related supplies from physical retail locations; some also offer musical instrument repair, rental, and music instruction. Major companies include Guitar Center, Numark, Sam Ash Music, and Schmitt Music (all based in the US), as well as Shimamura Music and Yamano Music (both based in Japan), and Thomann (Germany).

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Consumer income and changes in musical tastes drive demand for musical instruments. The profitability of individual companies depends on effective merchandising. Large companies have economies of scale in purchasing and marketing. Small companies can compete effectively by specializing in personalized service or high-end instruments. The US industry is concentrated: the 20 largest companies account for about half of industry revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major products include musical instruments and accessories (about 85%). Other sources of revenue include pianos and organs at about 10%.