Rough Trade

Rough Trade is an iconic independent record store and label brand that has played a pivotal role in the music industry since the late 1970s. Originally appearing as a storefront in West London, it quickly became a cultural hub for the punk and post-punk movements. Over the decades, it has expanded its footprint physically and digitally, specializing in vinyl records, merchandise, and curated music events.

While the label arm (Rough Trade Records) and the retail arm (Rough Trade Retail) operate under distinct ownership structures today, the brand remains synonymous with independent music curation. The retail division operates flagship stores in major global cities including London, New York, and Berlin. Products sold through Rough Trade, such as vinyl records and branded apparel, are manufactured in various countries depending on the artist's label or the specific garment supplier.

Rough Trade Retail is currently under the ownership of the Anglo-Belgian entertainment group, Beggars Group and management partnerships. It continues to champion independent artists and maintain its reputation as one of the world's most influential record retailers.