One of Europe's largest independent record labels has announced a 140 per cent increase in sales over the last year and a doubling of turnover.

Integrity Music Europe, which is based in Eastbourne, was founded more than ten years ago. The label, which specialises in religious music, has benefited from the marketing and distribution agreement it signed with Sony Music Entertainment last year.

At a time when the global music market is down by about ten per cent year-on-year, the company's revenues rose from £1.56 million to £2.96 million in 2002.

The label does not release precise unit figures but managing director Shirley Ferrier said album sales rose by 140 per cent, with profits showing a comparable increase.

The label is part of the world's largest Christian music group, Alabama-based Integrity Media.

Ms Ferrier said the rise in sales and revenues was simply due to meeting customer demand.

She said: "Once people are aware of what we offer they respond very positively. The challenge we have faced has been merely to let them know our material is available."

To help increase awareness, the company has conducted a television advertising campaign with Time Life Music.

The label's flagship release for the spring will be Praise God - part of its gold disc winning Songs 4 Worship series - a collection specifically for the European market.

Wednesday May 7