PRS for Music waives charges for small B&Bs

PRS for Music announced today that B&Bs with three bedrooms or fewer will no longer be asked to pay for a PRS for Music licence

The decision follows customer feedback and consultation with VisitEngland, and is supported by VisitScotland, Visit Wales and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board

The policy is being introduced as part of PRS for Music’s ongoing work to support small businesses and to make it easier for them to meet their copyright licensing obligations.

Debbie Mulloy, Commercial Director in the public performance licensing team said:

“PRS for Music recognises the issues faced by small businesses.  After all, most of 75,000 songwriters and publishers we represent are themselves small businesses.  We want to get the right balance between the music creators and businesses using music.  We’re very please to introduce the new policy - waiving charges for the smallest businesses in this sector.”

Pam Foden, Operations and Industry Engagement Manager, VisitEngland, said:

“We are delighted to have been able to work with PRS for Music to develop a new approach to licensing small B&Bs. PRS for Music has responded to calls from small businesses to review its approach and we feel this is fair outcome.”

PRS for Music represents 75,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers, collecting and paying royalties when their music is played, performed or reproduced. Many of its members earn a vital living for their creative talent through television plays of their music both in the UK and internationally.  

Charges for small B&Bs and guest houses, which don’t qualify for the policy, start from just £45 + VAT per year.