Distributions, Protect works

Expo distribution for artists with exhibitions

ProLitteris is introducing a new Expo distribution. It supplements the main distribution, which has so far consisted of the Print, Online and Broadcast distributions. The new distribution concerns visual works that are publicly exhibited in Switzerland or Liechtenstein. Authors and heirs with an exploitation agreement with ProLitteris receive royalties if the works are publicly shown by third parties and if the exhibition is advertised. The introduction is still subject to approval by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property.

04/29/2026

The Expo distribution responds to a usage situation that has clearly gained in importance for visual art and photography in recent years. Works in exhibitions are now regularly photographed, stored and reused in schools, companies and private use. For such uses, ProLitteris receives statutory royalties, in particular from the tariffs for storage media, schools and organizations. The Expo distribution now creates a separate, simple distribution channel for this purpose.

The royalty is based on two parameters: the number of works and the duration of the exhibition. Fixed amounts between CHF 50 and CHF 250 apply per author, exhibition venue and year of use. The system is deliberately kept simple. It does not use calculations based on visitor numbers or types of institutions.

The Expo distribution is initially to be introduced without new IT systems and without portal integration. During this phase, the notifications will be processed manually. The payment will be made together with the main distribution in September. The declaration deadline ends, as with Print and Broadcast, on 31.01 of the year following the year of use. For the first five years, ProLitteris expects a gradual increase in participation and an initially very low total royalty amount.

In a European comparison, a similar model exists at VG Bild-Kunst in Germany. In France, ADAGP implements an exhibition right on a different legal basis. With the Expo distribution, ProLitteris is choosing its own path, aligned with Swiss copyright law and with the existing main distribution.

The board will review the parameters of the new distribution annually in May. Before the Expo distribution starts, the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property will examine the amendment to the distribution regulations drafted for this purpose.

We will inform our members in good time about the start of the new distribution. The first year of use of the Expo distribution will be 2027: exhibitions must therefore take place in that year. The royalties will, as always, be distributed in the following year, i.e. for the first time in the main distribution 2028.