The Debate Over Record Store Day Flippers: A Fan's Perspective

Record Store Day, celebrated annually with much fanfare and anticipation, has become a significant event for music enthusiasts and record collectors alike. However, the concept of 'flippers'—those who purchase records solely to resell them at a higher price—has sparked a heated debate. As a longtime participant, I offer my perspective on this issue, weighing the pros and cons of the practice.

Understanding the Flippers

First, it's important to define what constitutes a 'flipper.' Generally, these individuals buy records on Record Store Day, often waiting in lengthy lines, and sell them on platforms like eBay at a higher cost. While there's no doubt that some flippers simply aim to make a quick profit, others argue that owning a record and subsequently selling it isn't inherently wrong.

The Grumbles and Gratification

From my own experience, I've experienced both highs and lows in regards to Record Store Day. There have been times when I was fortunate enough to get my desired albums early in the queue, and other times, I've had to forego the event due to work commitments. However, the latter situation has led me to find and purchase records online, often at a premium price.

There's a certain complexity to this practice. For instance, during one year where I couldn't attend Record Store Day, I found the same album on eBay for a higher price. It was tempting to go for it, but I made a point to only purchase it if the price was reasonable. In some cases, I've been willing to pay a markup of 10-20%, but anything more than 50% seems unreasonable to me.

Resale and Markets

The resale market, whether for concert tickets or records, is a reality that fans must often contend with. While some argue that it's exploitative, others see it as a legitimate way to recoup costs. In the music industry, the idea that a physical product should be sold indefinitely for a primary profit is far from ideal. Concert tickets, for example, can be resold for much higher prices on the secondary market, and this practice is widely accepted.

Personal Ethical Stance

Note that I find the practice of flippers annoying. There are times when people who aren't true fans purchase records, hoping to resell them for a profit. This drives up the price, hurting genuine collectors and enthusiasts. This isn't just limited to Record Store Day; concert tickets and other collectibles face similar challenges.

For me, I try to avoid buying concert tickets on the secondary market because I believe it fuelles an unsustainable and often unjust cycle. The same should apply to records. I prioritize the purchase based on the value of the record for me, regardless of the source. For Record Store Day releases, I’ve found that the vast majority aren’t worth the financial investment, even if they come from a flipper.

Bottom Line

The debate over record store Day 'flippers' is complex and multifaceted. While some fans see it as an unfair practice, others see it as a way to enjoy the record they've just purchased. Ultimately, the decision on whether to participate in the flipper market is a personal one. As a fellow fan, I advocate for making informed choices and prioritizing the genuine joy and value derived from record collecting.