Luminate has corrected its earlier report about US vinyl sales in 2024, clarifying that sales are actually up 6.2% rather than down 33.3% as initially reported. This dramatic revision has caused significant confusion in the music industry.

The confusion stems from Luminate's recent methodology change in how it tracks physical media sales. Key points about the situation:

• Luminate changed its data collection method in January 2024, excluding many independent retailers
• Over 1,500 independent record stores were removed from the tracking system
• Many indie retailers are now protesting by withholding their sales data
• Luminate currently receives data from only 33 accounts with 70 storefronts, down from previous coverage

The impact of these changes:

• Independent retailers and artists are concerned about sales undercounting
• Sales from indie stores are potentially being misattributed to major labels
• The Coalition of Independent Music Stores has launched an alternative sales chart
• Billboard and Luminate show different figures, despite both being owned by Penske Media

The Vinyl Alliance maintains that vinyl sales are healthy and growing, contradicting earlier reports of decline. This situation highlights the challenges in accurately tracking physical music sales and the importance of independent retailers in the vinyl market.

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