New chart for record shop sales

Independent record shops are to get a much-needed boost after chart compilers announced that they would launch a new sales countdown to support the stores' contribution to the music business.

It is the latest initiative to highlight the importance of record stores, as the impact of downloads leads to dwindling outlet numbers. The new weekly rundown will include only physical sales at nearly 100 independent shops in the UK.

It is being launched by the Official Charts Company on the eve of Record Store Day this Saturday, which celebrates the shops' role.