Rough Trade Records is a British independent record label. The label started during the punk rock period in UK music at the end of the 1970s, and was run by Geoff Travis , a music enthusiast whose tastes obviously influenced the labels signings tremedously. Early signings included Young Marble Giants, and Scritti Politti, an later The Smiths who in time, and in retrospect became a huge success, led by Morrissey, one of Manchester's famous sons. Interesting comparisons can be drawn between Rough Trade and Manchester's Factory Records label.

Rough Trade Shops are two well-known independent record shops in London, England (on Talbot Road near Ladbroke Grove and Neals Yard in Covent Garden).

Rough Trade was also the name of a 1980s new wave rock band in Canada.

The term "rough trade" comes from gay subculture. It usually refers to sex with someone who is violent or rugged, typically a prostitute or a lower-class worker. [1], [2], [3], [4].