United Record Pressing (URP), the iconic American vinyl record pressing company, is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a bold transformation of its manufacturing operations. This overhaul, which integrates cellular manufacturing and cutting-edge technologies, sets a new standard for quality, speed, and reliability in vinyl production. URP’s modernization positions the company as the premier choice for artists and labels seeking an alternative to offshore and foreign-owned pressing plants, ensuring timely delivery of records to the growing vinyl market.
A Legacy of Vinyl Excellence
Founded in 1949, URP has long been a cornerstone of vinyl production, pressing records for legendary artists such as Bob Dylan, Miles Davis, Outkast, and many others. Its legacy includes producing early Beatles singles and classic Motown albums, cementing its place in the history of vinyl. Today, as vinyl’s popularity experiences a resurgence, URP is embracing innovative manufacturing processes to meet the demands of the modern music industry while staying true to its roots.
Embracing Cellular Manufacturing for Efficiency and Quality
One of the most significant innovations at URP is the transition to cellular manufacturing. This approach, inspired by modern electronics manufacturing techniques, enables URP to significantly improve efficiency and quality control. The company’s 24 new pressing machines, along with 40 refurbished vintage presses, are now organized into specialized cells. This reorganization allows URP to efficiently handle a variety of projects, from large-scale releases by major labels to independent albums, while maintaining reduced lead times, visual creativity, and consistent production quality.
This streamlined approach makes URP not only faster and more reliable but also an attractive alternative to foreign-owned pressing plants, especially for artists and labels based in the United States.
Advanced Technology to Improve Production
URP’s modernization also involves investing in high-precision, programmable technologies designed to prevent plating issues before they disrupt production. Through collaborations with Sibert Instruments, URP has introduced optical disc manufacturing precision to the stamper fabrication and finishing processes. This advancement has resulted in faster turnaround times and higher-quality test pressings, ensuring that every record meets the highest standards before it reaches the market.
Commitment to Sustainability
As a recognized Sony Green Partner, URP is deeply committed to sustainability in vinyl production. The company partners with industry leaders to integrate environmentally friendly practices throughout its operations. One of the key initiatives is the use of bio-vinyl—a 100% recyclable, ISCC+ certified material that allows artists to produce records in a sustainable manner without sacrificing quality or durability.
URP’s dedication to both craftsmanship and sustainability ensures that every record it produces is not only a high-quality representation of an artist’s vision but also an environmentally responsible product.
Honoring the Legacy While Looking to the Future
Mark Michaels, CEO of URP, emphasized the company’s core values: “United Record Pressing is built on the foundation of honoring music creators and their art. With these advancements, we’re not only preserving the legacy of vinyl but also redefining how it serves the music industry. Our mission is to help artists memorialize their music on high-quality vinyl and deliver it to fans quickly and reliably, surpassing what’s offered by international competitors.”
The Future of Vinyl at URP
With its cutting-edge technologies and commitment to innovation, United Record Pressing is poised to lead the future of vinyl production. URP continues to combine the best of modern manufacturing with the tradition of excellence that has defined the company for 75 years. Artists, labels, and vinyl enthusiasts can rely on URP to deliver high-quality records with the speed and reliability needed in today’s fast-paced music industry.
About United Record Pressing
United Record Pressing, founded in 1949 and based in Nashville, Tennessee, is North America’s largest and most historic vinyl pressing plant. With over 60 presses and the capacity to produce more than 100,000 records daily, URP is a leader in quality, sustainability, and reliability. The company handles every step of vinyl production in-house, from lacquer cutting to pressing, ensuring timely delivery and exceptional craftsmanship. Celebrating 75 years, URP remains dedicated to preserving the art of vinyl and serving music creators for generations to come.
