Winn-Dixie, Sony BMG partner to offer prepaid MPG download cards
JACKSON VILLE , Fla Winn-Dixie, through an agreement with Sony BMG Music Entertainment, is making the purchase of prerecorded music through prepaid cards—music that’s downloaded to iPods or other MP3 players available to shoppers across its 521 stores.
The Platinum MusicPass is a credit card-size digital album card that allows consumers to download full-length albums in the form of high-quality MP3 files.
“MusicPass is an important part of Sony BMG’s ongoing campaign to bring its artists’ music to fans in new and innovative ways and to develop compellingnew business models,” stated Thomas Hesse, president of global digital business and U.S. sales for Sony BMG Music Entertainment.
“Winn-Dixie was one of the first retailers in the U.S. to partner with Sony BMG on this initiative,” commented Rich Romano, manager for Winn-Dixie’s prepaid card sales. “Sony BMG has been at the forefront of new entertainment technology and is home to some of the biggest names in the recording industry. Teaming with Sony BMG provides our customers the opportunity to purchase new release albums in an innovative way while they do their grocery shopping.”
The cards themselves are high-quality collectibles featuring artist images and album information. The MP3 files are delivered through MusicPass and can play on computers, as well as on all MP3 players, including iPods. “This makes them a simple, easy-to-use solution that appeals to fans who already access their music on the Internet, as well as to those consumers who are just getting into the digital realm,” Hesse said.
Platinum MusicPass cards have a suggested retail price of $12.99 and are found near the gift card mall displays in most Winn-Dixie stores. The cards include the complete digital album plus bonus material. In the case of compilations, MusicPass cards include extensive tracks. Purchasers scratch the back of the card to reveal a pin number. They then visit www.musicpass.com to download their music files and any bonus material.