Music for Pleasure (MFP) was a British budget record label launched in October 1965 as a joint venture between EMI, which provided catalogue material and pressing facilities, and the International Publishing Corporation, operating through Paul Hamlyn Holdings Ltd, which contributed expertise in non-traditional retail distribution.[1] Albums retailed at 12 shillings and sixpence, approximately a third of the standard LP price.[2][3]
The label was distributed primarily through non-traditional retail outlets, including supermarkets, newsagents, booksellers and department stores, and its launch introduced rack jobbing to the British record market.[4] Initial stock consisted largely of deleted EMI back catalogue and EMI licensee material, supplemented by recordings licensed from American labels including Capitol, MGM and Walt Disney.[5]
The venture exceeded expectations from the outset.