Foot Locker EMEA has announced a partnership with Studios For All, unlocking 10,000 free rehearsal and recording hours for emerging UK artists, with support from Pirate.com.

Foot Locker has joined forces with Studios For All CIC to provide 10,000 hours of free studio time for aspiring musicians across the UK. The initiative, powered by Pirate.com, will give artists access to rehearsal and recording spaces in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool.

The partnership aims to remove barriers for talent at a time when many face financial challenges. By offering free access to professional-grade facilities, Foot Locker and its partners hope to foster creativity and community within the UK music scene. “Studios For All levels the playing field for talented artists,” said Foot Locker EMEA in its announcement, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and opportunity.

About Studios For All

Studios For All CIC is a social enterprise dedicated to democratizing access to creative spaces. Its mission is to empower emerging artists by providing affordable or free studio time, helping talent overcome financial and logistical hurdles that often limit opportunities in the music industry.

About Pirate.com

Pirate.com operates a global network of self-service music studios, offering 24/7 access to rehearsal, recording, and production spaces. Known for its tech-enabled booking system and community-driven approach, Pirate supports musicians at every level, from beginners to professionals. Pirate.com will provide the physical spaces for this initiative, while creative agency GUNG HO helped bring the collaboration to life. Bianca, who led the project internally, and David Borrie, Pirate’s CEO, were credited for championing the effort.

 

Looking back: Cultural and Grassroots Marketing

The partnership reflects a broader trend of brands investing in cultural and grassroots initiatives to build authentic connections. Red Bull pioneered this approach in the early 2000s by sponsoring extreme sports and music events, creating a lifestyle ecosystem around its brand. Since then, companies like NikeAdidas, and Vans have embraced similar strategies, supporting local communities, artists, and creators to strengthen brand relevance beyond traditional advertising.