The Fitness Industry Association (FIA) has negotiated a 24 per cent discount for its members on payments to the Video Performance Limited (VPL).

Adding to the interim, three-year deal, FIA has also secured an undertaking that members will not be liable for any backdated charges prior to January 2010, provided they take up a VPL licence through the FIA by 31 October 2010.

Created in 1984, Video Performance Limited (VPL) was established to collect licence fees for the use of music videos - videos which are now commonplace as a source of background music and entertainment in gyms, health clubs and leisure centres.

It is a legal requirement that all businesses using tailored music video services purchase a VPL licence.

For most organisations, this has been an unexpected cost and one that can have a profound impact on the bottom line.

David Stalker, FIA executive director, says: "Negotiating a saving for FIA members is definitely an accomplishment we're all proud of. Not only that, but we can also save our members thousands of pounds by securing the authority's undertaking not to press for backdated charges."

FIA members can purchase an annual VPL licence at the discounted rate of £285 (+VAT) through the FIA until 31 December 2010. This price will be fixed for 2011 and 2012.