IMPALA, the trade body representing independent music companies across Europe, has published its sixth Equity, Diversity and Inclusion report. The document marks six years since the association adopted its EDI Charter and centers on a newly launched sector survey and a free toolkit for member organizations.
A sector survey to map practices and gaps
The new survey gathers information on EDI practices and challenges across Europe's independent music sector. IMPALA says the results will feed into its second sector report, planned for spring 2027. Organizations that complete the toolkit's self-assessment also contribute to the survey, and all associations and independent businesses are encouraged to respond if they have not already done so.
What the toolkit includes
The toolkit is free and combines several resources:
- A self-assessment tool with recommendations
- Five short online training modules
The survey was co-funded by the EU network grant. Co-chairs Eva Karman Reinhold of SOM and Gee Davy of AIM UK coordinate the taskforce, with adviser Keith Harris OBE.
Business case and initiatives across the sector
The report also updates the case for diversity, inclusion and innovation, examining how inclusive products and services can benefit companies. It argues that training alone is insufficient and must be paired with other measures to change workplace practices. Examples come from AIM UK, FÉLIN, Believe, several Friends of IMPALA including Spotify, SonoSuite and beatBread, and organizations such as Merlin, Key Production and Come Play With Me. It also references UK Music's Black Music Means Business report.