Grassroots music venues struggle to survive amidst rising costs in Scotland

In Scotland, PJ Molloys is a vibrant grassroots music venue located in Dunfermline. Owned by Calum Miller and his business partner Calum Traynor, the venue has developed into a popular live music destination over the past seven years. Miller, who thought his involvement in the industry would be temporary, has now committed over 13 years to managing the venue. Initially recognized as a cover band hotspot in an Irish-themed bar, PJ Molloys has transformed its identity to focus on original acts, showcasing bands like Franz Ferdinand and Lewis Capaldi. Despite its eclectic booking philosophy, Miller acknowledges significant challenges in attracting artists to perform outside major cities as the music touring landscape grows increasingly competitive. Financial hurdles, including the need to cover substantial monthly rent and rising operational costs, heighten the strain on venue sustainability. Despite these obstacles, PJ Molloys remains dedicated to supporting grassroots music culture while maintaining ticket prices similar to a decade ago, allowing broader access for fans. Collaborations with organizations like the Music Venue Trust and Creative Scotland have been pivotal to the venue's survival, especially throughout the struggles imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As grassroots venues face an alarming rate of permanent closures, with two on average disappearing each week, sustaining PJ Molloys becomes a testament to the resilience and adaptability of small music venues in an increasingly challenging economic environment.