Continuing the theme of consolidation amongst mid-level companies that was seen throughout 2007, eight French promoters have banded together to protect their independence and benefit from greater bargaining power and economies of scale.

Azimuth, Bleu Citron, Blue Line, Caramba, Pbox, Pyrprod, Yapucca and Zamora have jointly invested in a SARL (the French equivalent of a registered company) and launched ‘L’Arrière Boutique’.

Continuing the theme of consolidation amongst mid-level companies that was seen throughout 2007, eight French promoters have banded together to protect their independence and benefit from greater bargaining power and economies of scale.

Azimuth, Bleu Citron, Blue Line, Caramba, Pbox, Pyrprod, Yapucca and Zamora have jointly invested in a SARL (the French equivalent of a registered company) and launched ‘L’Arrière Boutique’.

“With the continuing growth of corporates like Live Nation and AEG, and the diminishing support from the record companies, the combined strength of this venture allows us to stay independent,” says Bernard Batzen of Azimuth.

All eight companies are of an equal size and were jointly responsible for 4,000 shows in 2007, with a combined turnover of €24million. Collective bargaining negotiations have already begun with production and media companies for what the promoters consider fairer deals.

“We all have the same concerns, ideas and feelings about the business and can now act as a pressure group for the various issues that we wish to bring to the table with professional bodies such as our union, Prodiss, as well as matters to be addressed with regional and national authorities,” Batzen continues. “For example, we are concerned about the extra payments that we have to withhold and pay out under social security regulations that are complicated and unfair for foreign artists.”