UK Market Report: Streaming Growth Slows, Vinyl Sales Wobble in 2025 Half-Year Data

The latest figures from the BPI show that the music market in the UK is experiencing slower growth in streaming and physical sales. Streaming consumption has increased by 6.4% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, a lower growth rate compared to previous years. The overall music consumption across all formats has shown a 5.2% increase in the same period.

Despite the slowdown, there is a positive long-term outlook for the music industry. According to industry analysts MIDiA, global recorded music revenues are expected to continue to grow, reaching $110.8 billion by 2032. Still, as streaming user growth slows, it will be essential to encourage music consumers to spend more to drive revenue growth.

Physical sales, on the other hand, have taken a hit in the first half of 2025. Overall physical sales are down by 4.7% year-on-year, with a significant drop of 14.5% in Q2. The decline in physical sales is mainly attributed to the steep decrease in CD sales, which saw a 22.4% slump in Q2.

Vinyl sales, often considered a bright spot in the physical market, have also shown signs of wobbling in 2025. While they were up by 6% in the first half of the year, the growth rate has slowed compared to the previous year. Vinyl sales were actually down by 2.8% in Q2, despite a successful Record Store Day during the quarter.

Overall, the music industry is facing a period of recalibration as it adjusts to changing consumer trends and market conditions. The focus will be on diversifying income streams and finding new ways to engage music consumers to drive growth in the long term.