The Distributor Agreement should clearly set forth the duties, responsibilities and expectations of each of the parties. The Distributor Agreement should also set forth provisions related to limitations and protections that each party can understand.
A digital distribution deal grants the distributor the right to distribute digital copies of the music. This includes streaming, downloads, and other internet-based methods for accessing music. A physical distribution deal, on the other hand, covers physical mediums such as CDs, vinyl, or cassettes.
Distribution agreements often include terms about termination conditions, allowing either party to exit the contract under specified circumstances. These contracts can also address intellectual property rights, ensuring that distributors understand how to handle branding and proprietary information.
The term for Distribution Agreements varies, with terms being anywhere from 5 to 15 years. I try to limit the term as much as possible—especially when there is no advance, or a meager one.
The agreement outlines the details of each party's responsibilities and the terms of their collaboration. Generally, the supplier is responsible for manufacturing and selling products while the distributor is responsible for carrying and marketing the product to retailers or customers in their locality.
Distribution Agreements will last for an agreed-upon term, which can be anywhere from 3 years, to eternity. During this Term, the Distributor has the (usually exclusive) right to market and distribute the film.