Equity has achieved significantly improved pay and stronger terms for a group of union members working in the fast-growing children’s audio players market.
Six audio artists were engaged to narrate children’s stories to be distributed via the Yoto platform. However, once the work had been completed, it became clear that the fees they had received fell far short of what was appropriate given the scale and nature of the recordings’ use.
The performers stood together to demand fairer treatment. Equity entered into complex negotiations with the producers, pushing for proper compensation. The union strived to ensure that the work was valued correctly, securing a meaningful uplift in pay and adequate contracts for the six members involved.
With the rapid rise of children’s audio products and storytelling devices, this case highlights a growing area of work where performers’ rights must be protected. Equity is urging members to take particular care when reviewing contracts for similar projects. Understanding how recordings will be used, especially when tied to physical products or widely distributed platforms, is essential to ensuring fair pay and conditions.
This is a powerful example of collective action delivering results. When members stand together, supported by their union, better standards can be won.
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