Music distributors and record shops play a central role in the relevance of physical formats in a digital world. Distributors face challenges such as shrinking retail space, the dominance of Amazon and rising logistics costs, while record shops act as cultural venues that not only sell music but also offer experiences – through live performances, DJ sets and exchanges about music. These venues support artists and contribute to cultural diversity. To differentiate themselves from online retailers, record shops need to develop creative strategies that emphasise their uniqueness and serve as a platform for musical discovery.