Collection: Factory Records

Factory Records was a legendary independent record label based in Manchester, England, founded by Tony Wilson and Alan Erasmus in 1978. It became synonymous with the Manchester music scene of the late 1970s and 1980s and played a crucial role in shaping the alternative music landscape in the UK.

Factory Records was known for its innovative approach to design, production, and distribution, as well as its eclectic roster of artists. One of its most famous acts was Joy Division, whose dark and atmospheric post-punk sound became emblematic of Factory's aesthetic. After the suicide of Joy Division's lead singer Ian Curtis in 1980, the band reformed as New Order and became one of Factory's most successful acts, blending elements of post-punk with electronic dance music.

The label also signed other influential acts such as A Certain Ratio, The Durutti Column, and Happy Mondays, who helped define the "Madchester" scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Madchester scene combined indie rock with elements of dance music, creating a distinctive sound that reflected the hedonistic spirit of the era.

Factory Records was also notable for its iconic graphic design, primarily the work of Peter Saville, who created distinctive artwork for the label's releases. Each Factory release was assigned a unique catalog number, and the label's minimalist aesthetic became instantly recognizable.

Despite its influence and cultural significance, Factory Records struggled financially throughout its existence, partly due to its unconventional business practices and Wilson's reluctance to compromise his artistic vision. The label eventually went bankrupt in 1992, but its legacy lives on, with its bands and artwork continuing to inspire musicians and artists to this day.