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14 May 2025

YORK BARBICAN JOINS THE MOVEMENT TO SUPPORT FLEXIBLE OPTION MERCH DEALS FOR TOURING ARTISTS

York Barbican has today announced that it is joining a growing number of UK venues committed to more flexible merchandise policies for artists, offering an initiative that aligns with evolving industry standards, and addressing the demands and rising costs faced by touring acts.

Starting May 2025, artists performing at York Barbican will be offered a new commission-free “self-vend” option, enabling them to staff and operate merchandise operations at their own shows. This offering is the latest initiative rolled out to protect and support artist earnings, particularly in the grassroots touring circuit. The venue will also retain their existing merchandise operation, giving the artist the choice between the two.

York Barbican is the latest to join the ranks of other UK venues supporting the Featured Artists Coalition’s (FAC) #100PercentVenues campaign. The FAC’s campaign continues to gain traction, with notable supporters including Charlatans’ Tim Burgess, who has helped raise awareness through his artist-led ‘Merch Market’ events.

Sam Ryder, General Manager of York Barbican said, “Merch is an increasingly important source of income for touring artists, and we want to support them in continuing to make touring more financially viable at concert hall level. We’re proud to further support the live music industry, by offering a commission-free option for artists who choose to self-vend.”

David Martin, CEO of the Featured Artists Coalition said, "As well as bringing their talent to the stage, artists are also the biggest employers in live music. However, without sales of T-shirts, vinyl and posters, many would find it impossible to cover their touring costs - or even to break even. This is why, since 2022, the FAC have been pushing for fairer practices in live music, including removal of and reductions in merchandise commissions via our 100% Venues campaign. Today's announcement by York Barbican is a welcome step towards that goal. We urge other venues to follow suit, and to offer artists the option of selling their merchandise commission free."

This move reflects a wider shift across the UK live music scene, as more venues reassess their role in supporting the viability of touring, especially for emerging and mid-level acts navigating the widely reported threats to the industry’s grassroots. Now, York Barbican signals its commitment to evolving with the needs of artists and the broader industry, putting York on the map as an artist-friendly top on the UK touring map.