Audio-Technica is kicking off a nationwide search for the UK's best independent record shop. It's in celebration of Record Store Day (20th April 2013), where hundreds of the UK's independently owned record stores come together to celebrate the art of music.

Audio-Technica is now calling for the UK's music lovers to nominate their favourite record stores via its Facebook page giving an insight into what it is that makes the shop so special, and why they love buying music there.

A public vote will determine which store is crowned Audio-Technica's independent record shop of the year, with it winning £1,000 to put towards a special event for its loyal customers, whether it's a one-off gig, giveaway or in-store party. The person making the nomination will also receive £200 money to spend on records in the shop.

Nominations are being taken until Friday 5th April before five stores are shortlisted for the final vote, taking place 8th April. The winning store will be announced just before Record Store Day on 17th April.

Audio-Technica senior UK marketing manager Harvey Roberts said: "The UK is seriously into music, and the heart of the industry is the independent record stores, run by fanatics, and catering to the fans. As a leading audio technology brand, we share that love and obsession of music. This competition is not only about celebrating Record Store Day and our independents, but about giving something back to the shops, and the fans – more important than ever when the High Street is experiencing such tough times. We can't wait to see the nominations."

Audio-Technica is not commercially affiliated with Record Store Day 2013.

About Record Store Day
Record Store Day came into being in 2007 when over 700 independent stores in the USA came together to celebrate their unique culture. The UK followed suit and 2013 will see the sixth celebration of the UK's unique independent sector. This is the one day that all of the independently owned record stores come together with artists to celebrate the art of music. Special vinyl and CD releases and various promotional products are made exclusively for the day and hundreds of artists across the globe make special appearances and performances. Festivities include performances, meet & greets with artists, DJ's, in store quizzes and many other events.

More information:

• www.recordstoreday.co.uk

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