[PIAS] used MIDEM to announce a number of new partnerships which will enable the independent distributor and label group to offer artists a whole range of so called 'direct to consumer' solutions. The collected services will be offered to artists and labels as one package via a [PIAS] D2C division. The new partnerships include alliances with e-commerce and marketing-based-technology companies Topspin Media and Digital Animal, and an arrangement with UK-based fulfilment firm MAM Logistic.

Confirming the deals, [PIAS]'s Adrian Pope told CMU: "[PIAS] is ideally positioned to support its labels and artists with direct to consumer e-commerce and CRM based solutions. [PIAS] D2C will develop to provide a range of solutions that compliment other services that we offer, from [PIAS] Digital Marketing to [PIAS]'s retail marketing, sales and distribution operations on an international basis".

Digital Animal founder Chris Thompson added: "It's great to have such an experienced full service channel partner that sees it's future in our space.  We are thrilled to be able to offer competitive direct to fan solutions to Europe's most important independent artists and labels through [PIAS]".