IMPALA formally launched its new Friends Of IMPALA programme at MIDEM this weekend, which aims to connect the trade body with independent players from across the wider music industry, including music media. IMPALA is, of course, the pan-European trade body for independent record companies. Copying to an extent the 'Friends of' programme operated by UK indie label trade body AIM, the IMPALA scheme will be open to a wide range of music companies, including PR, retail, finance, legal and even music radio.