{
  "id": 9230388,
  "title": "Here’s How Independent Artists Are Actually Selling Merch Online Now",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/23/heres-how-independent-artists-are-actually-selling-merch-online-now",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-23T00:28:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Billboard",
    "slug": "billboard",
    "url": "https://www.billboard.com/culture/product-recommendations/distrokid-independent-artists-merch-online-1236339561/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Independent musicians and artists are increasingly turning to online sales of merchandise as a means to bolster their finances during tour dates. The rising costs and thin margins associated with touring make selling merch a practical option for many. Original T-shirts, tote bags, CDs, and vinyl records are among the popular items that indie artists sell to sustain themselves on the road. Sales from merchandise can significantly impact the income of both established and emerging artists.\n\nTo simplify the process of creating and selling merch, digital distribution company DistroKid Direct has emerged as a valuable tool for indie artists. The platform allows musicians and bands to design unique merchandise, including T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, tote bags, housewares, and other items, without the need for hiring graphic designers. By directly offering a platform to fans, DistroKid enables artists to sell their creations effortlessly.\n\nOne of the main advantages of using DistroKid lies in its ability to handle inventory management. Many indie artists struggle with stocking the right amount of merchandise, as overstocking certain sizes or neglecting essential items like tote bags can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction among fans. DistroKid addresses this challenge by providing an on-demand merch production service. This ensures that artists maintain appropriate inventory levels, thereby reducing the headaches that come with logistics and inventory control.\n\nMoreover, DistroKid empowers indie artists by allowing them to set their own prices for merchandise. This flexibility enables artists to cater to their fanbase while keeping costs manageable. The platform also handles the financial aspect, deducting production costs from the sales price. Consequently, this approach allows indie artists to grow their fanbase without incurring significant upfront expenses.\n\nFor independent musicians and bands looking to expand their reach and generate revenue, exploring the options offered by DistroKid Direct could be a game-changer. By streamlining the merch creation and sales process, the platform enables artists to focus more on their music and less on the intricacies of running an online store.",
  "summary": "Direct powered by DistroKid is one of the best ways for indie artists to find and connect with fans.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}