Hidden cost of workplace music

Businesses have called on the Performing Rights Society (PRS) to better publicise the law surrounding music in the workplace.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) says that businesses have "very little knowledge" of the law. It is seeking to publicise the activities of the PRS, which it says has been cold-calling firms to quiz them on their use of music.

Under current rules, businesses playing copyrighted material that may be heard by customers or multiple members of staff must pay for a license from the PRS.

The BCC cites the case of Wigan-based Dam House, who were told by the PRS that they needed a licence costing £230 to play music in their kitchen. Upon admitting that a choir performs copyrighted Christmas carols at the venue, the charity was asked to pay the PRS a total of £470.

"Chambers of Commerce from across the country have been telling me that the PRS has been ramping up its efforts to get money out of businesses, many of whom are simply not aware of the law," said BCC director-general David Frost.

"The PRS needs to tell people what the law is and why it exists before demanding money," he added.