U.K.-based digital service provider Tornado Group plc has forged a digital distribution deal with Paris-based indie Wagram. Tornado will provide the technology and infrastructure to host and distribute the Wagram repertoire via the Virgin Megastore France Web site, due to launch next month. Initially, 1,000 tracks will be offered as á la carte downloads or under the retailer's subscription service.

The Virgin site (www.virginmega.fr) forged an alliance with Tornado earlier this year (Bulletin, Jan. 16). Tornado says the Wagram content will later be syndicated to its network of European e-tailers.

Meanwhile, Tornado yesterday reported a pretax loss of £6.86 million ($9.77 million) in 2001, compared with a loss of £5.8 million ($8.26 million) in 2000. Revenues last year reached £40,400 ($57,900). "[2001] saw the commencement of revenues, albeit at modest levels, which, with the launch of key services during the first half of 2002, we expect to form the basis for consistent revenue growth through the year," says chairman Ian Watson in a statement.