Interestingly enough, statistics show that vinyl record sales have been growing over the last several years.  We would think that this resurgence is good news for our record collections and for the record pressing industry, as well.  One could also see that this would go hand in hand with a record manufacturing resurgence but it seems that instead of showing growth, the record manufacturing industry continues to shrink.

Statistics also indicate that there may be a shortage of pressing plants currently in operation with no new development in companies that previously manufactured the tools and parts needed to service and repair the equipment used for pressing records.

As a result, most investigations into this situation show that many of the remaining plants are being cannibalized by newer entrants and even more established players in the manufacturing business, in order to obtain bits and pieces of gear needed to repair parts of their own decaying systems.

Another study suggests that there may only be around 12 or 13 pressing facilities left in the US, with another handful spread across the rest of the world.

Having said that, and looking from the standpoint of artists wishing to have their music pressed to the vinyl medium, this production process may ultimately cost more than the amount that can be charged for each record.  An interesting phenomenon, to say the least.

Considering this, my question is, do you think that this industry should have another chance at being an important part of our musical growth and awareness?

– JM