Who We Are
The Alliance of Independent Music Merchants is a strategic alliance of the nation’s leading independent music retailers and the industry’s most respected manufacturers. We exist to help strengthen and grow the music industry by connecting innovative retailers with forward-thinking vendors, creating a community built on partnership, integrity, and a shared focus on the customer.
Our story began in 1998, when three visionary retailers—George Hines, Bob Bankston, and Skip Maggiora—saw an opportunity to elevate the industry through collaboration. Instead of working in isolation, they imagined a group where retailers could openly share best practices, learn from one another, and work directly with manufacturers who valued long-term relationships over transactional sales. That idea became AIMM.
Today, AIMM has grown far beyond its three founders, but the principles they established remain unchanged. Our retailers are chosen not only for their business excellence but also for their commitment to education, customer service, and continuous improvement. Membership is by invitation and requires meeting high standards of operational discipline, financial integrity, and active participation within the group.
Likewise, AIMM Preferred Vendors represent the highest level of partnership in the industry. These manufacturers are selected for their product quality, reputation, and willingness to invest deeply in collaborative planning with our retailers. Together, we work on strategic initiatives—marketing programs, training, product development insights, and customer-focused solutions—that drive real value for both sides of the supply chain.
At its core, AIMM is a relationship organization:
Retailers helping retailers. Vendors partnering with vendors. And all of us working together to support the musicians, educators, and communities we serve.
What began as a small circle of passionate store owners has grown into the industry’s most experienced and trusted alliance—still driven by the same mindset that started it all more than 30 years ago:
Share openly. Partner strategically. Focus relentlessly on the customer.
Our Preferred Vendor Partners
AIMM works closely with a select group of preferred vendors who share our commitment to independent retail, collaboration, and the customer experience.
Ready to experience the difference of shopping with a dedicated local music shop?
