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HMV is an international music and entertainment retailer, founded in London in 1921. The brand is owned by Hilco Capital[1] and operated by Sunrise Records, except in Japan, where it is owned and operated by Lawson.[2]

Key Information

The inaugural shop was opened on Oxford Street by the Gramophone Company, who had already established the His Master's Voice symbol on their sound equipment, and from 1909, as its own record label.[3] In the 1960s, HMV became a chain across London, and expanded nationwide in the 1970s. It expanded internationally in the mid-1980s, and opened its 100th UK shop in 1997.[4]

In 1998, the retail operations were divested from EMI (successor to the Gramophone Company), to form what would become HMV Group plc.[5] In 2007, HMV bought rival retailer, Fopp, as well divesting its Japanese business.[6][7] In April 2013, HMV was rescued by Hilco Capital for an estimated £50 million after falling into administration.[8] In February 2019, the Canadian retailer Sunrise Records rescued 100 of the 127 HMV shops from Hilco after a second administration, but with Hilco retaining ownership of the HMV brand.[9]

In May 2023, Sunrise Records announced HMV would return to Ireland, followed by an announcement in November 2023 that it would also enter the Belgian market.[10][11] In February 2024, Sunrise Records announced HMV would re-enter the Canadian market as a store-within-a-store concept within Toys "R" Us locations.[12]

History

[edit]

Origins

[edit]

In 1898, Francis Barraud painted His Master's Voice, which depicted his late dog, Nipper, listening to a phonograph. The painting and subsequent trademark rights would be sold in 1899 to the Gramophone Company, using it on its sound equipment, and in 1909, created their His Master's Voice record label.[13]

In 1921, the Gramophone Company opened the first dedicated His Master's Voice shop at 363 Oxford Street, London, in a former men's clothing shop.[14] Composer Edward Elgar participated in the opening ceremonies.[15] In March 1931 the Gramophone Company merged with Columbia Graphophone Company to form Electric and Musical Industries Ltd (EMI), with the Gramophone Company becoming part of EMI.[16]

The original HMV shop was severely damaged by a fire in 1937, but was rebuilt and reopened two years later on 8 May 1939. Sir Thomas Beecham opened the new shop.[17]

Secondary logo, used as the main logo from 2007 to 2021

Expansion

[edit]
HMV's former flagship branch at 150–154 Oxford Street, London. It was later converted into a Sports Direct shop in 2015.

In 1966, HMV began expanding its retail operations in London. Throughout the 1970s, the company continued to expand, doubling in size, and in six years became the country's leading specialist music retailer. It faced strong competition, however, from Virgin Megastores, established in 1976, and from Our Price, established in 1972, which had numerous high street retail shops around the UK. Subsequently, HMV overtook Our Price in popularity and threatened its existence, having established a chain of newer and larger shops.[citation needed]

The company opened its flagship shop at a new location at 150–154 Oxford Street in 1986, announcing it was the largest record shop in the world at the time, and the official opening was attended by Bob Geldof and Michael Hutchence.[18] Growth continued for a third decade into the 1990s, with the company reaching over 320 shops[18] including in 1990 its first shop in the U.S. located at 86th and Lexington in New York City, which was the largest music shop in North America at the time.[19] HMV celebrated its 75-year anniversary in 1996.[16]

In February 1998, EMI entered into a joint venture with Advent International to form HMV Media Group led by Alan Giles, which acquired HMV's shops and Dillons, leaving EMI with a holding of around 45%.[20] The new joint venture then bought the Waterstones chain of bookshops to merge with Dillons.[21]

Flotation

[edit]

By 2002, EMI's holding in HMV Media was 43%, with Advent International owning 40% and management the remainder.[citation needed] The company floated on the London Stock Exchange later in the year as HMV Group plc, leaving EMI with only a token holding.[22]

HMV operated a loyalty scheme branded as "purehmv", first launched in August 2003, but subsequently closed and relaunched in 2008.[23] The scheme awarded cardholders points for purchases, which could be collected and redeemed on a number of rewards including vouchers, memorabilia and signed merchandise. "purehmv" has since closed and will be replaced by a new loyalty scheme, the launch date of which is yet to be announced.[24]

The group became susceptible to a takeover following a poor period of trading up to Christmas 2005. Private equity firm Permira made a £762 million conditional bid for the group (based on 190p a share) on 7 February 2006, which was rejected by HMV as an insufficient valuation of the company.[25] Permira made a second offer which increased the value, although HMV declined it on 13 March 2006, subsequently issuing a statement that the offer undervalued the medium and long term prospects for the company,[26] resulting in Permira withdrawing from bidding.[27]

Acquisitions

[edit]
A large HMV branch in Leeds incorporating an Orange shop

In 2006, the HMV Group purchased the Ottakar's book chain and merged it into Waterstones. The merger tied into HMV's strategy for growth, as many of the Ottakar's branches were in smaller towns. The Competition Commission provisionally cleared HMV Group, through Waterstones, for takeover of the Ottakar's group on 30 March 2006, stating that the takeover would "not result in a substantial lessening of competition".[28] Waterstones then announced that it had successfully negotiated a takeover of Ottakar's on 31 May 2006.[29] All 130 Ottakar's shops were rebranded as Waterstones prior to Christmas 2006. In March 2007, new group CEO Simon Fox announced a 10% reduction over three years in the enlarged Waterstones total shop space, comprising mostly dual location shops created by the acquisition of Ottakar's.[30]

On 29 June 2007, the entertainment retailer Fopp went into administration, with the closure of 81 shops and 800 staff made redundant.[31] On 31 July HMV bought the brand and six shops that it said had traded profitably, saving around 70 jobs.[32]

On 1 September 2008, HMV launched "Get Closer", a social networking site allowing users to import their own music library, rivalling other providers including digital music stores Napster and the iTunes Store.[33] The site was closed in September 2009.[34]

On 24 December 2008, HMV's rival Zavvi, successor to entertainment retailer Virgin Megastores, entered administration. On 14 January 2009 a placing announcement by HMV revealed that it intended to acquire 14 of Zavvi's shops.[35] On 18 February 2009 five additional Zavvi shops were purchased by HMV Group, to be rebranded as HMV outlets. An additional former Zavvi shop in Exeter's Princesshay development was also added.[36] The acquisitions were investigated and cleared by the Office of Fair Trading in April 2009.[37]

In the 2008 MCV Industry Excellence Awards, HMV was given the title Entertainment Retailer of the Year.[38]

In January 2009, HMV bought a 50% stake in MAMA Group, forming a joint venture with the group called the Mean Fiddler Group.[39] The deal introduced the HMV brand to live music venues, including the Hammersmith Apollo.[40] On 23 December 2009, it bought the whole of the MAMA Group in a live music takeover deal worth £46 million.[41]

In September 2009, HMV bought 50% of 7digital for £7.7 million, as part of a strategy to increase its digital content offering. 7digital provided HMV's music download service, and the company planned to introduce an e-books service for Waterstone's.[42]

In October 2009, HMV established a joint venture with Curzon Cinemas as part of chief executive Simon Fox's plan to bring cinemas to HMV and Waterstone's shops across England. The first trial cinema opened above the existing HMV shop in Wimbledon, in a former storage room converted into three separate screens and a bar. It has its own entrance, allowing access outside shop hours, and one within the shop. The trial was deemed a success, and it had been planned to open additional cinemas in HMV's Cheltenham shop, and Waterstone's in Piccadilly, London.[43][needs update]

On 5 January 2011, HMV announced that profits would be at the lower end of analysts' forecasts due to falling sales, resulting in the share price falling by 20%[44] and an announcement of the group's intention to close 40 HMV shops, as well as 20 Waterstone's bookshops, mainly in towns and cities where the company operated at multiple locations. The first of the shop closures began at the end of January 2011.[45]

The sale of Waterstone's to A&NN Capital Fund Management for £53 million was completed on 29 June 2011, and was approved by the vast majority of shareholders at an emergency general meeting.[46]

HMV sold the Hammersmith Apollo to AEG Live and Eventim in May 2012 for £32 million.[47] It sold the remainder of MAMA Group to Lloyds Development Capital in December 2012 for £7.3 million, which also included the company's 50% stake in Mean Fiddler Group.[48]

Administration (2013)

[edit]
A branch in Wakefield closing as part of the group administration (March 2013). This unit has since been occupied by Waterstones.

On 15 January 2013, HMV Group appointed Deloitte as company administrators[49] and suspended shares,[50] putting its 4,350 UK employees at the risk of redundancy.[49][51] Gift vouchers were initially declared void since holders are classified as unsecured creditors to whom the company owed the value,[52] but were accepted again from 22 January 2013.[53]

Restructuring firm Hilco UK bought HMV's debt from its creditors The Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group, as a step towards potentially taking control of the company.[54] It was revealed that the total debt Hilco had bought amounted to around £110 million,[55] and that HMV owed around £20 million in tax to HM Revenue and Customs at the time of its entry into administration.[citation needed]

On 31 January 2013, it was reported that 190 redundancies had been made at the head office and distribution centres.[56]

On 7 February 2013, Deloitte confirmed that 66 shops had been identified for closure.[57] No fixed date was given for the closures but they were expected to take place in the following two months. The next day, Deloitte confirmed that an additional 60 redundancies, including the chief executive Trevor Moore, had been made at the group's offices in London, Marlow and Solihull.[58] Deloitte confirmed on 20 February 2013 that an additional 37 shops would close.[59] On 26 February 2013, six shops were sold to supermarket chain Morrisons.[60]

On 28 February 2013, eight shops in Hong Kong and Singapore were sold to AID Partners Capital Limited and the operation then became independent from HMV Group that was bought by Hilco UK. This transaction also enabled AID Partners Capital Limited to own the rights to use the HMV brand in Hong Kong, Macau, China, Taiwan and Singapore.[61]

By 23 March 2013, Deloitte was seeking to complete a deal to sell 120 shops as a going concern.[62] The decision to close several shops that had previously been identified for closure were reversed following talks with landlords.[63]

Hilco ownership (2013–2019)

[edit]
HMV reopened its original shop at 363 Oxford Street (previously Foot Locker until 2010) in October 2013. This shop was closed on 5 February 2019 following the purchase of HMV by Sunrise Records. The location was later turned into an American candy outlet in 2022, and was then finally reopened in November 2023.

On 5 April 2013, Hilco UK announced that it had acquired HMV, taking the company out of administration and saving 141 of its shops and around 2,500 jobs. The total included 25 shops that had previously been selected for closure by Deloitte during the administration process. All nine Fopp shops which HMV owned were also included in the purchase. The takeover deal was estimated at £50 million.[8]

Following the purchase by Hilco UK, it was reported that the company was seeking to reduce the number of shop staff across the business, as part of an effort to save £7.8 million on the wages budget. Shops would lose security staff, cashiers and supervisors, with managers required to provide cover.[64]

HMV launched a music download service in October 2013 (www.hmvdigital.com), provided by 7digital,[65] which includes iOS and Android apps.[66]

The company moved its flagship Oxford Street shop back to the original site at 363 Oxford Street on 23 October 2013.[67] HMV's existing flagship shop at 150–154 Oxford Street, formerly the largest music shop in the world, closed on 14 January 2014.[68]

By 2014, HMV had gained the second highest share of the UK entertainment market, behind Amazon.[69] The company's filing to Companies House in September 2014 revealed it had made a profit of £17 million in the 11 months since it had entered administration.[70] In January 2015, HMV overtook Amazon to become the largest retailer of physical music in the UK.[71]

HMV relaunched its online shop in June 2015, providing CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray Discs, and LP records for online order and home delivery with exclusive stock also available.[72]

In June 2015, HMV relaunched an online shop to accompany its existing music download service.[73]

However, the originally safe shops of York, Soilhull, Portsmouth and Belfast shut.[when?][citation needed]

Sunrise ownership (2019–present)

[edit]
Interior of HMV on Lands Lane in Leeds in 2019.

On 28 December 2018, HMV confirmed it had again been placed into administration. Hilco UK cited the "tsunami" of retail competition as the reason for the move.[74] On 5 February 2019, Canadian record shop chain Sunrise Records announced its acquisition of HMV Retail Ltd. from Hilco UK for an undisclosed amount. Sunrise had previously acquired the leases for over 70 HMV locations in Canada after HMV Canada entered receivership, which expanded the Ontario-based retailer into a national chain. Sunrise plans to maintain the HMV chain and five Fopp shops, but immediately closed 27 locations, including the flagship Oxford Street branch and other locations with high rent costs.[75]

Company founder Doug Putman stated that he planned to increase the chain's emphasis on vinyl phonograph sales as part of the turnaround plan: Sunrise's leverage of the vinyl revival had helped bolster the Canadian locations' performance after the shops' transitions from HMV, having sold at least 500,000 vinyl LPs in 2017 alone. Putman argued that, despite the growth of digital music sales and streaming, "talk about the demise of the physical business is sometimes a bit exaggerated, especially in music specialists. Most of the decline is coming from nontraditional sellers like the grocery chains. We'll be here for quite some time."[76][77][75]

On 25 February 2019, the Financial Times reported that the Sunrise acquisition was valued at £883,000. Following subsequent negotiations with its landlords, by late-February, HMV reopened 13 of its shops (including one Fopp shop).[78][79][80]

The shop in Belfast, which had previously re-opened up in March 2014 after a £1 million pound refurbishment, was threatened with closure in February 2019. However, a deal was reached with Frasers Group which allowed the shop to continue trading.[81][82]

In October 2019, the new owners opened the HMV Vault on Dale End, Birmingham, billed as Europe's biggest entertainment shop and stocking tens of thousands of CDs and vinyl records and other products.[83]

The former flagship Canadian HMV, located at Yonge Street in Toronto. Nipper is notably missing from the fascia, as it is owned by a different entity in Canada.

COVID-19 pandemic and 100th birthday (2020–2021)

[edit]

From 22 March to 15 June, and then from 5 November to 2 December 2020 and from 4 January 2021 to 12 April 2021 (in England), all HMV shops were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[84]

Into the 2020s, HMV began opening new and relocated shops, including in locations which previously had HMV branches that had earlier shut, such as Solihull.[85] In some cases these new outlets were opened in shops vacated by the demise of other retail chains, particularly Arcadia Group, with an HMV shop opened in Dunfermline premises previously occupied by Burton Menswear and Dorothy Perkins,[86] a return to Broadway Shopping Centre, Bexleyheath – again in former Burton/Perkins premises – nine years after the closure of their previous shop in the town,[87] and a relocation in Wigan from a smaller prior site to larger premises vacated by Topshop/Topman.[88]

In July 2021, HMV celebrated its 100th birthday. In celebration, the firm released 37 limited edition vinyl albums.[89] A 100 track CD compilation entitled Now That's What I Call HMV was also released. The album was only available to buy at HMV shops, and online on HMV's website, plus eBay.

In 2021, the company began to rebrand, using the motto "The HMV Shop" for shopfronts and social media; the previous logo is still used in most shops (including the flagship HMV Vault shop), and the website.[90]

The Oxford Street shop re-opened in November 2023 after four years of closure.

In April 2023, it was confirmed that HMV had signed up to reopen a new-format shop in their original home at 363 Oxford Street after four years away,[91] during which time the premises had been occupied temporarily by "American candy" outlets, along with other vacated shops on the street.[92] This will be, following runs from 1921 to 2000 and 2013–2019, HMV's third stint at 363 Oxford Street.

On 18 May 2023, Sunrise Records announced that HMV would re-enter the Irish market again with a shop on Dublin's Henry Street, in a unit previously occupied by the company during their first incarnation. The shop opened on 30 June 2023.[93][94]

On 21 July 2024, Phil Halliday, the managing director of HMV announced; that there was an increase of customers buying physical media formats of films and television shows commercially released on DVD and Blu-ray.[95]

International operations

[edit]

Belgium (2023–present)

[edit]

In November 2023, Sunrise Records announced that HMV would expand into Belgium.[96] In March 2024, it was announced HMV would open its second Belgian location.[97]

Canada (1986–2017, 2024–present)

[edit]

In 1986, EMI Music Canada purchased the Mister Sound chain.[citation needed] EMI then attempted to rebrand the sites as His Master's Voice shops, but were not granted the rights from RCA who own the rights to the "His Master's Voice" and Nipper trademarks in the U.S. and Canada.[citation needed] However, EMI were not prevented from using just the 'HMV' initials, which were sometimes initialised to "Hot Music Values" in radio and television commercials in the 1990s.[citation needed]

In 1991, EMI opened HMV Canada's flagship shop at 333 Yonge Street in Toronto.[citation needed] The flagship shop hosted in-store concerts from Puff Daddy, D'Angelo, Green Day, Foxy Brown, Ramones, Guns N' Roses, Backstreet Boys, and NSYNC. A concert hosted by the Red Hot Chili Peppers had the Yonge and Edward Street intersection closed off.[98][99] The Yonge Street shop was also notable for promoting local indie music scene by giving unsigned bands prominent shelf space on the ground floor, as well as hosting in-store concerts and events with Toronto bands.[99]

The retailer also occupied a two-level, 20,000 square foot shop in West Edmonton Mall which included an event stage (known as the Phase IV Stage) in front of the shop. The Phase IV Stage often hosted musical performances or autograph signings by artists who were making tour stops in Edmonton.[100]

In June 2010, HMV Canada launched purehmv, a customer rewards program that offered shop discounts and exclusive items across music, film, and gaming in exchange for points gained in-store.[101] Over 300,000 customers joined the program in its first four months.[102]

In June 2011, HMV sold its Canadian operations for £2 million to Hilco Capital, a British firm specialising in retail restructuring.[103]

In late 2011, HMV Canada announced closures of its Downtown Vancouver and Richmond Centre shops.[104]

By 2012, HMV had 113 shops in Canada, down from 121 when it was sold by HMV Group. However, Hilco Capital opened several new shops, including one in Peter Pond Mall in Fort McMurray.[105] In late 2012, Hilco Capital reported they were successful at restructuring HMV Canada, and that there were no plans to cease operations.[106] As part of its strategy, HMV Canada focused on growing back-catalogue music and movies not found at discount rivals, while also carrying higher-margin merchandise like gifts, collectibles, clothing and headphones, while removing video games and technology hardware from sale.[citation needed]

By January 2017, the company had $39 million in debt, after running at a loss since 2014.[citation needed] Hilco Capital stated that financial difficulties, combined with decreasing sales, meant the current situation was not sustainable. On 27 January 2017, HUK 10 Ltd., the shell company owned by Hilco employee, business partner of Nick Williams, and owner of HMV UK, Paul McGowan sued HMV Canada in the Ontario Superior Court.[107] They were successful, and Hilco Capital announced plans to close all HMV Canada locations by 30 April 2017.[108] HMV Canada locations held clear-out sales of their remaining inventory.[109] The flagship shop on Yonge Street in Toronto closed on 14 April 2017.[98]

In February 2017, Ontario-based chain Sunrise Records bought the leases of 70 of HMV Canada locations in an effort to convert into Sunrise Records locations, and invited 1,340 former HMV Canada employees to apply for 700 positions. HMV Canada's flagship location on Yonge Street in Toronto was one of the several locations that were not part of the deal, and remained vacant.[110][111] Its head office was located in Etobicoke.[112]

On 5 February 2019, Sunrise Records subsequently announced its intent to buy HMV UK out of administration from Hilco Capital for an undisclosed amount, with the possibility of HMV Canada's revival being considered.[113]

In February 2024, Toys "R" Us Canada (also owned by Sunrise Records owner Doug Putman) announced that it would begin to introduce HMV-branded store-within-a-store departments at its locations, carrying music, home video, and various pop-culture collectibles. The retailer also returned to online trading.[114]

Ireland (1986–2013, 2013–2016, 2023–present)

[edit]

HMV established its first shop in Ireland in 1986 following the retailer's expansion to Canada. The first shop to open was on Grafton Street which became very popular for numerous big name Irish acts performing live in the shop. The retailer expanded in Dublin with a second shop on Henry Street and that followed with expansion into Cork in the late 1980s before adding a shop in Limerick City in the 1990s. The retailer expanded with numerous shops in the Greater Dublin region and nationwide again into Galway and Newbridge in the early to mid 2000s.

On 5 February 2011 HMV Ireland announced that its profits had fallen by almost 90% to €465,000, compared to €4.1 million the previous year.[115]

On 16 January 2013, HMV Ireland declared receivership which required the company under Irish law to close all its shops immediately.[116]

In April 2013, Hilco also stated that it hoped to reopen a HMV shop in Ireland following the closure of all shops in the country.[117] Later, on 9 June 2013, it was confirmed that Hilco Capital Ireland had purchased HMV Ireland, and would reopen five shops within six weeks.[118]

In January 2016, HMV Ireland confirmed the closure of its Galway City shop, and its shop on Dublin's Grafton Street, with both to close by the end of that month.[119] This followed the closure of many Xtravision and HMV Xtravision branded outlets at the end of December 2015/early January. In late January 2016, the remainder of Xtravision was liquidated.

In July 2016, Hilco announced it would be closing its five remaining Irish shops, in order to refocus HMV in Ireland as a new digital service (HMV Digital) where customers can stream, rent or purchase music and films online. The new HMV digital service was to launch in Ireland before rolling out into the UK and Canada.[120] However, HMV failed to successfully launch its new digital service in Ireland. All shops closed between 29 and 30 August 2016.[121]

In June 2023, it was announced that HMV would return to Ireland, with a shop in Dublin.[122] In May 2025, a shop opened in Limerick Crescent Shopping Centre.124

Japan (1990–present)

[edit]

In 1990, EMI established HMV Japan.[123] Since JVC Kenwood Holdings (through its JVC and Victor Entertainment subsidiaries) controls the "His Master's Voice" trademark in Japan following a break-up from RCA Records, HMV Japan uses a stylised gramophone of its own design as its trademark. As with the former U.S. and Canadian operations, HMV Japan's use of the initials "HMV" has never been challenged.

In July 2007, HMV Japan, which operated 62 shops at the time, was sold to DSM Investment Catorce. The brand, shops and website would continue to trade as HMV, but would no longer be owned by HMV Group.[124]

On 28 October 2010 the Japanese convenience shop giant Lawson acquired all shares of HMV Japan from Daiwa Securities SMBCPI for ¥ 1.8 billion. KK HMV Japan became a part of Lawson, and was renamed KK Lawson HMV Entertainment (株式会社 ローソンHMVエンタテイメント) on 1 December in the same year. Terms of the deal were published on official websites.[125]

As well as "HMV & Books" at some locations, Lawson Entertainment also uses "HMV Record Shop" and "HMV Museum". The tagline for HMV Japan is "the music & movie master".[126]

Defunct international operations

[edit]

Australia (1989–2010)

[edit]

In 1989, HMV established its first Australian shop in the Sydney suburb of Parramatta, closely followed by a second in Chatswood in the same year.[citation needed] In 1990, HMV opened its flagship shop in the Sydney central business district.[citation needed] The 1,207-square-metre superstore in Pitt Street Mall was the largest music shop in the Southern Hemisphere and sold more CDs than any other shop in the country.[citation needed] It was also awarded the ARIA Charts Store of the Year on three occasions.[citation needed] By 1998, a further 27 shops were opened in key retail centres on the eastern seaboard of Australia, including other large units at Melbourne's Bourke Street Mall and Brisbane's 585-square-meter Queen Street Mall shop.[127]

In March 2000, HMV made local headlines when its larger rival, Sanity, signed a five-year deal with Festival Mushroom Records for a three-year online exclusivity window on all tracks downloaded from that label at Sanity's website.[citation needed] Sanity's competitors and other online services were meant to be blocked from Festival Mushroom's catalogue for that period unless Sanity agreed to deal with them. Chaos.com and Leading Edge Music both made public threats to boycott Festival Mushroom's content, but HMV Australia (whose website did not offer downloading) followed through, removing all CDs from their Australian shops, adding they would do the same overseas. By the next week, Festival Mushroom backed down, stating Sanity would simply be the wholesaler of their digital downloads for the next three years, requiring them to make all products available to other retailers at the time of release.[128][129][130]

In October 2005, Sanity's owner, Brazin Limited acquired the Australian operations of HMV for A$4 million (£1.7 million). The HMV Group's agreement with Brazin was to phase out the HMV brand in Australia by 2010. Immediately after this acquisition of HMV's 32 outlets, this put Brazin at its peak with its 74 Virgin Megastore and Virgin At Myer shops, in addition to Sanity's 215, and EzyDVD's 63 outlets around the country (not counting non-entertainment retail chains within Brazin, such as Bras N Things) and was by far Australia's largest entertainment retailer with close to 43% of the music retail market. However, most HMV shops in Australia had very high overhead costs due to their large footprints and expensive locations, thus most were gradually closed upon the end of rental leases. The remaining shops were re-branded to Sanity over the next five years.[131][132] The horizontal merger was approved by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission the same month, leaving Brazin to merge marketing and general operations within the one entertainment division.[citation needed] Also in October, Brazin launched its Pulse loyalty card after a year of testing in the market. It worked by giving the customer one point for every dollar spent across Brazin's shop network, receiving a $5 discount voucher or other offers once 100 points were reached.[133]

By December 2006, HMV had shrunk to 22 outlets from its peak of 32 the year before.[134]

At the end of August 2007, HMV's Australian flagship shop in Pitt Street Mall was closed, when the Mid City Centre shopping centre it was located in was closed for renovation, and the large Bourke Street Mall shop closed on 19 February 2008.[citation needed] By mid-2010, the last HMV shop was closed in Brisbane by Sanity, and the last re-branded HMV shop trading as Sanity closed at Indooroopilly Shopping Centre in December 2012.[citation needed]

Hilco Capital owns the HMV brand in Australia.[135]

France (1990s)

[edit]

In the 1990s, HMV attempted to launch in France, but faced severe competition from Fnac and Virgin Megastores, as well as hypermarkets. The few trial French shops only lasted around six months.[136] Hilco Capital owns the HMV brand in France.[137]

Germany (1990s–2000s)

[edit]

As of April 1998, HMV traded in Germany as HMV Tonträger GmbH, with the business later closed in the 2000s.[138] Hilco Capital owns the HMV brand in Germany.[137]

Hong Kong and Singapore (1990s–2010s)

[edit]
HMV shop in the Elements, Kowloon, Hong Kong, in 2007.

In 1994, HMV opened its first shop in Hong Kong at Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Road. Following this, HMV expanded into new shopping malls across the region. The Tsim Sha Tsui flagship shop, located at the corner of Peking Road and Hankow Road, was the largest record shop in the territory.[139]

In Singapore, HMV was the second international music shop established after Tower Records, which eventually closed. HMV operated a shop at Marina Square, and previously had locations at 313@Somerset (which replaced a former shop at The Heeren) and the CityLink underground mall. HMV's pricing was generally higher than independent shops and local chains like Gramophone and That CD Shop, but it was the only retailer in Singapore to sell a variety of products, including games, T-shirts, books, and audio gear, alongside music and video.[citation needed]

In the 2000s, HMV Hong Kong partnered with Commercial Radio Hong Kong, renaming one of their channels HMV864 and broadcasting it in all HMV shops in the city. HMV Hong Kong was known for higher prices compared to independent record shops, particularly on non-promotional items. The Hong Kong shops were the second globally, after the UK, to introduce in-store digital kiosks, and the first in Asia. Initially, HMV Hong Kong used the same stylized gramophone logo as HMV Japan but later switched to the Nipper the Dog logo used by HMV UK, minus the gramophone.

On 28 February 2013, Deloitte announced that Hong Kong-based private equity firm AID Partners Capital Holdings had acquired HMV's businesses in Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as the rights to the HMV brand in China, Singapore and Taiwan.[140] HMV's 313@Somerset shop in Singapore closed in November 2013, and the CityLink shop closed earlier.[141]

In September 2015, HMV closed its last Singapore shop.[142]

By 21 March 2016, China 3D Digital Entertainment Limited acquired HMV Hong Kong operations from AID Partners Capital Limited, later renamed to HMV Digital China Group Limited.[citation needed]

In December 2018, the Hong Kong operations, which included four shops and an HMV-themed restaurant, were closed.[143][144]

As of May 2023, a company called HMV Brand Pte. Ltd. retains ownership of the defunct "HMV" and "His Master's Voice" brand across Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as various other Asian countries.[145]

Qatar (2015–2022)

[edit]

In July 2015, it was announced that HMV had struck a deal with the Qatar-based company, Al Mana Lifestyle, for fifteen shops across Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. There were also plans for Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco.[146] However, none of these plans came to fruition, and only one HMV shop in Qatar's Al Mirqab mall was opened, which later closed in 2022.[147] The Al Mana Lifestyle Trading company retain the rights to the HMV brand across Qatar and Oman, whereas the rights to HMV in other Middle East regions, such as the United Arab Emirates, is owned by Palm Green Capital Limited.[148]

United States (1990s–2004)

[edit]

In the 1990s, the chain expanded into the United States, opening several shops along the East Coast, including a prominent flagship location in Manhattan.[138] Similar to Canada, EMI in the U.S. did not have rights to use "His Master's Voice" or the Nipper dog mascot; as these trademarks were owned by RCA. Though, HMV in the U.S. was not prevented from using just the "HMV" initials by themselves.[149]

HMV in the U.S. faced significant competition from rivals such as Tower Records, FYE and Virgin Megastores. The final shop in the United States, having lost £500,000 in 2003 and £1 million in 2004, closed on 3 November 2004.[150]

From November 2004, HMV Canada maintained the defunct HMV trademark in the United States until it expired in November 2015.[151]

In April 2021, "HMV" was registered in the United States by Victor Musical Industries Inc. for sound equipment retailing.[152]

See also

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References

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HMV, originally standing for , is a British entertainment retailer specializing in music recordings, films, video games, books, and related merchandise, with origins tracing back to a pioneering established in the early . Founded as a retail chain in 1921 by in , it has become an iconic high-street brand known for its distinctive logo featuring the listening to a gramophone, a acquired in and first used on labels in 1908. Over its century-long history, HMV expanded globally, peaked as a multibillion-pound enterprise in the mid-2000s with hundreds of stores, but faced multiple administrations amid digital disruption before a revival driven by vinyl resurgence and strategic acquisitions. The brand's roots lie in the , formed in 1898 as the UK partner to the American Gramophone Company founded by , which introduced the flat-disc system to Europe. In 1909, it launched the record label, drawing from Francis Barraud's 1899 painting of his late brother's dog reacting to a recording, which the company purchased and adapted into its enduring emblem. The label quickly became a cornerstone of the recording industry, producing early acoustic and electric gramophones, including the first electric model in 1927, and merging with Columbia Graphophone in 1931 to form , which continued using the HMV imprint until 1993. The retail arm began with the opening of its flagship store at 363 on July 20, 1921, officiated by composer Sir , marking the first dedicated shop for gramophone records and players under the HMV banner. By the late , HMV had evolved into a major international chain, listing on the London Stock Exchange in 1998 and acquiring interests in bookseller Waterstone's from 1998 to 2011, while expanding to over 500 stores worldwide at its height. The company's valuation soared to over £1.2 billion in the mid-2000s, fueled by CD and DVD sales, but the rise of digital streaming services like and , coupled with competition from online giants, led to mounting debts and a first administration in 2013. Acquired by for approximately £50 million, it retained 140 stores, but faced a second collapse in 2018; Canadian retailer purchased the brand in 2019 for £883,000, shifting focus to physical media niches like vinyl. As of 2025, HMV operates under , with around 100 stores primarily in the UK and , emphasizing a comeback through new openings in cities like , Cork, and , alongside expansions into such as the . The flagship store, shuttered in 2019, reopened in 2023 on its original site, symbolizing resilience amid a vinyl sales boom among younger consumers disillusioned with streaming. Today, the brand blends with modern retail, hosting live events and exclusive merchandise while navigating the challenges of physical storefronts in a digital era.

History

Origins

The Gramophone Company Limited was established in in 1898 by William Barry Owen and Edmund Trevor Lloyd, with financial support from J.E. Hough, to manufacture and distribute gramophones and disc records under license from inventor , who had patented the flat-disc gramophone in 1887. , a German-American , played a pivotal role in the company's origins by granting European patent rights for his lateral-groove disc recording technology, which enabled higher-fidelity sound reproduction compared to earlier cylinder phonographs. In 1901, the company launched its "His Master's Voice" (HMV) record label, deriving the name from a painting by British artist Francis Barraud completed in 1898, depicting Barraud's deceased brother Mark's dog curiously listening to a . The acquired the painting and its copyright in 1900 for £50 (equivalent to about £6,000 in 2023), commissioning Barraud to modify it by replacing the original Edison-Bell cylinder with a ; this image became the central element of the HMV trademark, first appearing on record labels in 1907 and symbolizing the brand's commitment to authentic sound reproduction. The logo rapidly evolved into an iconic branding tool, adorning gramophones, labels, and advertisements to evoke curiosity and loyalty among early consumers, and it was licensed to the in the United States, forging early ties that later connected HMV to RCA Victor upon the latter's formation in 1929. From its inception, HMV emphasized high-quality recordings, particularly of and , targeting affluent audiences with discs featuring renowned artists such as tenor , whose 1902 sessions for marked a commercial breakthrough for the label. This focus on classical repertoire, including symphonies and vocal performances, established HMV as a prestige brand in the nascent recording industry, with the trademark reinforcing its reputation for superior audio fidelity. The company's retail venture began in 1921 with the opening of its first dedicated HMV store at 363 in , a former men's clothing shop inaugurated by composer on July 20; the outlet initially specialized in selling gramophone records and machines, serving as a flagship for demonstrating the latest recordings. This marked the transition from pure manufacturing to consumer-facing operations, laying the groundwork for broader retail presence in the .

Expansion and acquisitions

In 1931, , which operated HMV's retail outlets, merged with the to form , integrating HMV into a larger conglomerate that expanded its distribution and retail capabilities across recorded formats. This merger allowed HMV to leverage EMI's resources for gradual growth, including the absorption of Columbia's existing record distribution networks, though specific acquisitions of independent smaller record shops were limited during this period. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, HMV primarily operated from its flagship store in , with minimal additional openings as the focus remained on classical and early popular recordings. Expansion accelerated in the , as HMV opened new locations across and the South East to capitalize on rising consumer interest in music retail, marking the chain's first significant push beyond its original site. By the mid-1960s, under EMI's direction, HMV pursued more aggressive nationwide growth, reaching approximately 15 stores by 1970 and establishing itself as a key player in the UK's music retail sector. The 1950s brought a pivotal shift for HMV toward , driven by the emergence of rock 'n' roll and the explosion in single sales, which exceeded 280 million units in the UK over the decade as teenagers embraced artists like . HMV stores adapted by prioritizing contemporary genres, stocking rock 'n' roll records prominently and hosting promotional events; notable examples include in-store autograph sessions by in 1963, which drew massive crowds and underscored the retailer's role in the era. To enhance the shopping experience amid this diversification, HMV introduced listening booths as early as , enabling customers to audition records in private settings. By the , these evolved into advanced, sound-isolating "press-button" booths, revolutionizing how shoppers previewed music without and becoming a hallmark of HMV's stores. As technology advanced in the late and , HMV further diversified its inventory beyond vinyl records to include magnetic tapes and cassettes, aligning with the growing popularity of portable audio formats introduced commercially in 1963.

Flotation and growth

In 1988, HMV was restructured as a joint venture between and , forming HMV Media Group and marking the beginning of a period of accelerated expansion under more focused management. This restructuring enabled rapid store openings, growing the network from around 100 locations in the late to over 300 stores internationally by the mid-1990s, capitalizing on the booming demand for physical media. The expansion included acquisitions from earlier phases, such as regional chains, which bolstered the presence before pushing overseas. During the 1990s, HMV diversified its product range to include VHS videos, compact discs (CDs), and computer games, aligning with the surge in digital-format adoption that transformed consumer entertainment. CDs, in particular, drove replacement purchases of music collections, while videos and games appealed to broadening leisure interests, with DVDs later comprising over 50% of sales by the late 1990s. This shift positioned HMV as a comprehensive entertainment retailer rather than a music specialist, sustaining growth amid evolving media technologies. By 1998–2000, HMV reached its peak performance, achieving annual revenues of approximately £1.3 billion and a that reflected its dominance in retail. These figures underscored the company's scale, with strong sales from CDs and emerging DVD/game segments contributing to robust profitability before the full impact of digital downloads emerged. The period also saw early international forays, including licensing deals that allowed HMV branding in select markets without direct ownership, complementing owned stores in regions like and . In , HMV Group plc floated on the London Stock Exchange, valuing the company at around £1 billion and providing capital for further diversification and global reach.

Financial administration (2008–2013)

The 2008 global financial crisis, stemming from the , severely strained HMV's retail model by curtailing consumer spending on discretionary entertainment products. As footfall declined and credit availability tightened for retailers, HMV faced mounting pressures from intensified competition by supermarkets and online sellers, alongside the shift toward . By late 2010, the company's underlying net debt had surged to £151.6 million, a £63.5 million increase from the previous year, exacerbated by a £40 million annual loss driven by falling sales. These financial woes prompted HMV to enter a period of intensive restructuring in , without full administration but under close oversight from lenders and debt advisers. In January , the company announced the closure of 60 stores over the following year, aiming to eliminate unprofitable sites and reduce overheads amid persistent weak trading. This initiative, which included shedding around 800 jobs, was a direct response to breached banking covenants and supplier credit restrictions, reflecting the broader retail sector's post-crisis contraction. Concurrently, the proliferation of digital piracy through platforms like file-sharing sites, combined with the emergence of legal streaming services such as (launched in the in 2009), accelerated the erosion of HMV's core physical sales, with CD and DVD revenues plummeting as consumers opted for cheaper, on-demand alternatives. Despite these measures, HMV's decline continued, culminating in its first full administration on 15 January 2013, after dismal 2012 sales left it unable to meet debt obligations totaling around £170 million. , appointed as administrators, swiftly identified 66 underperforming stores for closure over the next two months, resulting in 930 redundancies. Shortly thereafter, an additional 37 stores were shuttered, adding 464 job losses and bringing the total workforce reductions to approximately 1,400, or nearly half of HMV's staff. These closures, which reduced the store network by over 100 outlets in total during the administration process, underscored the irreversible damage from digital disruption and economic headwinds, leaving the company on the brink of potential .

Hilco ownership (2013–2019)

In April 2013, restructuring firm acquired HMV out of administration for approximately £50 million, preserving 141 stores across the and along with around 2,500 jobs that had been at risk. The deal, completed just months after HMV's initial collapse earlier that year, allowed Hilco—which already operated HMV —to reposition the brand by emphasizing its historical strengths in and entertainment retail while trimming underperforming operations, such as closing loss-making outlets and reducing reliance on video games and DVDs. Under Hilco's stewardship, HMV refocused on physical music formats, particularly capitalizing on the resurgence of vinyl , which saw sales surge by 170% in 2014 compared to the previous year. This strategic shift, combined with enhanced in-store experiences like live events and exclusive merchandise, contributed to a sales rebound, with turnover reaching £365.7 million in the fiscal year ending early 2014, an increase of 17.5% from pre-administration levels. By 2015, HMV had reclaimed its position as the 's largest retailer of physical music, surpassing competitors like Amazon during key trading periods such as the season. The acquisition also incorporated all nine Fopp stores, the boutique-style music retailer originally purchased by HMV in , which complemented Hilco's turnaround by offering a curated selection of independent and niche titles in urban locations. These outlets were retained and integrated into the broader network, helping to attract younger demographics interested in specialist vinyl and alternative music offerings without requiring significant restructuring. Despite these gains, HMV faced mounting challenges by 2018, including a sharp decline in DVD and Blu-ray sales—down over 30% during the 2018 holiday period—and intensified competition from streaming services, which eroded demand for . These pressures, alongside broader retail sector headwinds, culminated in HMV entering administration for a second time in December 2018, though Hilco continued to oversee operations until the transition to new ownership the following year.

Sunrise ownership and revival (2019–present)

In February 2019, HMV Retail was acquired by , the Canadian entrepreneur and owner of , for an undisclosed sum, marking a shift from its previous ownership under and enabling integration with Sunrise's operations in , where Putman had previously taken over HMV stores in 2017. Under Putman's leadership, HMV experienced steady recovery, expanding to 121 stores across the by early 2024 and achieving annual sales of £189.5 million for the year ending May 2024—a figure more than double the £90.3 million recorded in 2021, reflecting robust growth in demand. To mark its centenary in , HMV launched the "1921 Edition" series of limited-edition vinyl releases, featuring exclusive colored and recycled variants of albums by artists such as , , and , available both in stores and online on July 24, alongside in-store events and promotions celebrating the brand's heritage. These initiatives highlighted HMV's enduring role in music retail amid a vinyl resurgence. The posed significant challenges from 2020 to 2021, with stores closed for extended periods—such as from March 23 to June 15, 2020—leading to revenues dropping to £90.3 million in the year ending May 2021, roughly half the pre-pandemic levels, and resulting in an operating loss of £231,000. HMV adapted by bolstering its platform, which saw increased traffic and sales during lockdowns, helping to mitigate the impact of physical store restrictions. By 2025, HMV continued its revival with the opening of a new store in Limerick, , on May 16 at the Shopping Centre—the second Irish location following —signaling renewed international presence. Expansion plans faced a temporary setback in November 2024 due to tax policies, including and increases from the Autumn , leading to a suspension of new store openings at that time; however, by 2025, HMV announced the resumption of expansion with three new stores planned across the and , including in (), Cork (), and (), following the opening of its first store in the on October 14, 2025.

Business operations

Products and services

HMV's core product offerings encompass a wide array of physical entertainment media, including vinyl records, compact discs (CDs), DVDs, Blu-ray discs, and 4K Ultra HD releases. These categories form the foundation of the retailer's inventory, with music products such as new album releases, reissues, and compilations available in both vinyl and CD formats. Film and television content is similarly diverse, featuring standard editions alongside premium formats like steelbooks for major releases. In addition to media, HMV stocks video games, including pre-orders, chart titles, and retro gaming options, as well as related merchandise such as apparel, collectibles, and pop items like T-shirts, plush toys, keychains, and jewelry tied to franchises including and . Books focused on entertainment, such as volumes for films and games, and collections further round out the assortment, emphasizing pop and gaming tie-ins. In November 2024, HMV expanded its book offerings with the opening of the HMV 363 Bookshop on the second floor of its flagship, featuring over 4,000 titles across various genres and hosting literary events. Since the 2010s resurgence of physical formats, HMV has placed particular emphasis on niche markets, offering limited-edition vinyl pressings in colored variants and exclusive editions for events like Vinyl Week and National Album Day. Similarly, the retailer highlights high-end 4K UHD releases with exclusive packaging, catering to collectors and enthusiasts seeking premium, collectible items. Complementing its product range, HMV provides in-store services such as ticket sales for live music and album signings through its hmvLive program, which hosts concerts and artist appearances at select venues like HMV . These services enhance the shopping experience by connecting customers directly with entertainment . Over time, HMV's portfolio has evolved from a music-dominant focus in its early decades to a more balanced mix incorporating , television, and gaming products.

Retail format and store network

HMV's emphasizes an immersive shopping experience centered on and entertainment merchandise, with stores designed to foster through dedicated zones for browsing, demonstrations, and events. The flagship store at 363 in , reopened in November 2023, spans 10,500 square feet across three floors and serves as an experiential hub featuring specialized areas for vinyl records, CDs, Blu-ray titles, and gaming products, complete with demo stations for audio and visual previews as well as a live performance stage for in-store events. Standard HMV stores typically range from 2,000 to 5,000 square feet and are located in high streets and shopping malls, featuring open layouts with prominent displays for , films, and pop items to encourage exploration and impulse purchases. These formats prioritize and , often incorporating interactive elements like listening pods and merchandise walls to enhance the tactile appeal of physical formats over digital alternatives. Complementing the main , the Fopp sub-brand operates smaller, boutique-style stores focused on independent and niche selections of , films, and books, maintaining a curated, affordable vibe that appeals to enthusiasts seeking unique offerings. As of April 2024, HMV maintained a of 120 stores across the , including planned expansions such as the upcoming outlet in Peterborough's Queensgate Shopping Centre, scheduled to reopen the brand's presence in the city after a five-year hiatus on November 21, 2025. This domestic footprint underscores HMV's strategy of revitalizing high-street retail through targeted reopenings in key urban and suburban areas.

E-commerce and digital initiatives

HMV launched its initial platform in 1999 through HMV Media, enabling online sales of music, films, and games as part of its early digital expansion. Following financial administration in 2013, the company relaunched its online store in 2015 with store.hmv.com, focusing on physical products like CDs, DVDs, and vinyl to complement its retail network and restore customer access after a two-year hiatus. In 2024, HMV undertook a initiative, revamping its central website on the Kentico platform to improve , handle over 80,000 pages and 61,000 products, and support peak traffic periods. This update enhanced service clarity and premium positioning, integrating features for seamless browsing and transactions. Click-and-collect services, allowing customers to order online and pick up in stores, have been a key component since at least 2020, bridging digital and physical channels during store reopenings post-lockdown. HMV introduced a in 2013 for and Android, featuring image and sound recognition to scan album covers or record song clips for instant purchases and downloads, marking an early step in its digital strategy. The app supported MP3 downloads directly to devices, competing with platforms like , though it faced temporary removal from the Apple due to guideline issues before being reinstated. Online sales have contributed to overall growth, with the company's turnover reaching £189.6 million in the year to May 2024, up 6.5% year-on-year, amid a vinyl resurgence and expanded capabilities. In 2023, HMV adopted an payment strategy via Worldpay to optimize operations across 34 markets, further supporting digital-physical integration. Physical stores continue to support online orders through click-and-collect, enhancing for customers.

Current international operations

Canada

HMV entered the Canadian market in 1986, establishing a network of stores that grew to 102 locations by the mid-2010s. The chain operated under various ownership structures, including a sale to restructuring firm in 2011, before facing mounting financial pressures from the shift to . All stores closed by April 30, 2017, marking the end of standalone HMV retail in . In early 2017, acquired leases for 70 of the shuttered locations, rebranding them as its own stores and preserving physical music retail in . Following 2019 acquisition of the global HMV brand through its purchase of the operations, the retailer integrated HMV into its Canadian portfolio under common ownership by . This enabled synergies, such as coordinated inventory sourcing across transatlantic operations to support vinyl and distribution. HMV relaunched in in January 2024 as branded store-within-a-store sections inside Toys "R" Us locations, initially in five sites including , Pickering, and Burlington. The revival emphasized physical entertainment products like vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, record players, and indie music apparel, responding to renewed consumer interest in tangible formats amid streaming fatigue. Additional rollouts followed in , with plans extending to for broader coverage. By November 2025, HMV operated in multiple locations across and . This growth aligned with Toys "R" Us Canada's optimization strategy, which included closing five underperforming stores earlier in the year while prioritizing HMV expansions to enhance music and pop culture offerings.

Ireland

HMV entered the Irish market in 1986, opening its first store on Grafton Street in Dublin, followed shortly by a second location on Henry Street. The retailer expanded to a network of 16 stores across Ireland before facing financial difficulties. In January 2013, following the appointment of a receiver amid the UK parent's administration, HMV closed all 16 Irish outlets, resulting in approximately 300 job losses. A brief revival attempt under Hilco ownership saw four stores reopen later that year, including sites in Henry Street and Liffey Valley, but these too shuttered by 2016 due to ongoing administration proceedings, marking HMV's full exit from physical retail in Ireland. Under ' ownership, HMV relaunched in Ireland in 2023 with a flagship store at 18 Henry Street in , spanning three floors and stocking around 5,000 vinyl albums, 5,500 CDs, and over 3,000 pop items. This opening created 25 new jobs and adopted a retail format influenced by successful stores, emphasizing , entertainment, and merchandise. The location quickly became a hub for vinyl enthusiasts and pop fans, with plans for further expansion signaled from the outset. Building on this momentum, HMV opened its second Irish store in May 2025 at the Crescent Shopping Centre in Limerick, marking the brand's return to after over a . The Limerick outlet focuses on vinyl records, merchandise, and hosts live performances, drawing local interest with its emphasis on accessible entertainment retail. In late 2025, HMV announced a third store at Merchants Quay Shopping Centre in Cork, scheduled to open before year's end and creating 10 full- and part-time positions. As of November 2025, HMV operates two stores in Ireland, with a third in Cork scheduled to open before the end of 2025, centered in major cities and tailored to the local music scene through dedicated sections for Celtic folk traditions and Irish indie artists, alongside broader international offerings. These expansions have generated significant employment, with the relaunch adding 25 roles and the anticipated Cork opening expected to contribute 10 more.

Japan

HMV entered the Japanese market in 1990 through its parent company , opening the first store in Tokyo's district as a dedicated and retailer. This marked the beginning of HMV's adaptation to 's vibrant pop culture scene, initially focusing on imported Western before shifting emphasis to local tastes. By 2007, the operation had expanded significantly, leading to its sale to Daiwa Securities for approximately 17 billion yen, transitioning it toward greater independence from oversight. In December 2010, Lawson, Inc. acquired full ownership of HMV Japan K.K., integrating it as a consolidated subsidiary to bolster offerings alongside its network. Under Lawson ownership, HMV Japan has maintained a network of approximately 9 stores as of 2025, concentrated in key urban areas such as and , with flagship locations like HMV&BOOKS and HMV record shop serving as cultural hubs. The retailer specializes in releases, soundtracks and merchandise, and K-pop imports, catering to Japan's dedicated fanbase for idols, voice actors, and visual media. These product lines reflect a strategic localization, stocking limited-edition CDs, Blu-rays, games, and goods that appeal to collectors and culture, while the online platform hmv.co.jp supports international shipping for global enthusiasts. To align with Japanese consumer preferences for experiential retail, HMV introduced integrated HMV&BOOKS formats starting around 2010, incorporating cafes and dedicated event spaces in select stores. The flagship HMV&BOOKS , opened in 2015 within the Shibuya Modi complex, features a stylish cafe on its upper floors where customers can relax with purchases amid and media displays. Event spaces host near-daily activities, including artist meet-and-greets, live performances, and signings, fostering in a market where physical interactions remain valued. These adaptations have helped differentiate HMV from pure competitors, emphasizing tangible experiences in urban settings like and Osaka's district. HMV has demonstrated resilience throughout the amid global shifts toward digital streaming, benefiting from the country's enduring demand for , which accounted for approximately 56% of recorded music from physical and digital formats in 2024. The retailer's online sales via hmv.co.jp reached approximately $226 million in 2024, with projections for modest 0-5% growth in 2025 driven by vinyl revivals, Blu-rays, and collector editions. This stability underscores HMV Japan's position as a key player in Japan's recorded music market of approximately $2.5 billion in 2024, where physical formats continue to thrive due to cultural preferences for high-quality packaging and exclusivity.

Belgium

HMV launched its Belgian operations in November 2023, opening its first store in the Wijnegem Shopping Centre near on 23 November, as the initial step in its mainland European expansion. This 4,000-square-foot outlet introduced the brand's pop culture retail format to the region, stocking around 10,000 items including music, films, and merchandise. The company followed with a second store in at the City2 Shopping Centre on 12 April 2024, which spans 6,300 square feet and stands as Belgium's largest dedicated entertainment retail space. The location created eight new jobs and emphasizes a broad selection of products, such as 6,000 vinyl albums, 8,000 CDs, over 1,500 DVD titles, 2,000 Blu-ray and 4K UHD films, and 4,000 pop culture items including collectibles, Marvel gadgets, merchandise, and Loungefly accessories. By 2025, HMV maintains two stores in — one in the area and one in —focusing on music, , , and pop culture to serve the diverse base. The retailer has partnered with Opus Retail Solutions to support this continental rollout, enabling localized merchandising while preserving its signature entertainment emphasis. In-store events like HMV Live & Local gigs for emerging artists further integrate the brand into the local scene. This Belgian entry aligns with HMV's broader European revival under ' management, building on successful Irish reopenings to reestablish the brand across the continent.

Netherlands

In October 2025, HMV announced plans to enter the market with its first store in , scheduled to open by the end of the year. This marks the retailer's initial foray into the country, following the success of its two Belgian locations as a model for regional growth in the area. The new site in is in the latter stages of development and will feature HMV's standard retail format, stocking a full range of music, , and pop culture products, including vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray, and 4K titles. This expansion leverages the ongoing in , where the market is projected to grow significantly amid renewed consumer interest in . The initiative aligns with HMV's broader European strategy under ownership, capitalizing on improved supply chain efficiencies within the EU to support international operations.

Defunct international operations

Australia

HMV entered the Australian market in 1989, establishing its first store in the Sydney suburb of , followed shortly by a second location in Chatswood. Expansion accelerated during the CD sales boom, with a flagship 1,500-square-meter outlet opening in 's CBD in 1990, described as the country's largest at the time. By 1999, the retailer operated 28 stores, primarily in and , as part of HMV's broader global push into international markets. HMV's Australian operations peaked at 32 stores in , holding a 9.5% share of the market with annual sales of about A$109 million. However, fierce local competition from chains like , combined with the digital revolution, led to sharp declines; the overall Australian recorded market fell by approximately 42% from its 2000 high of A$866.9 million to A$498.4 million by 2008. In response to the ongoing downturn, HMV sold its Australian to Brazin Ltd.—'s —for A$4 million in , agreeing to phase out the HMV brand entirely by 2010. The final HMV-branded store in closed in mid-2010, ending the chain's physical presence in . This withdrawal contributed to the broader decline of music megastores, creating opportunities for independent retailers to thrive, especially with the resurgence of vinyl sales in the following decade.

European markets (France and Germany)

HMV's entry into the French market occurred in the early 1990s as part of its broader international expansion efforts during that decade. The company opened a flagship store in , aiming to capitalize on the growing demand for music and retail. However, it faced intense from established players like , which responded aggressively by slashing prices and intensifying promotional activities. This pressure forced HMV to close its Paris outlet after just six months of operation, marking a swift retreat from . In , HMV launched operations in 1996 under the name HMV Tonträger , establishing a limited network of pilot stores to test the market. By the early , the company operated three locations: in (its flagship at the Centro retail park), , and Münster. Despite initial optimism, sales underperformed due to the highly price-sensitive nature of the German retail landscape, where consumers prioritized low costs over brand experience. HMV shuttered the and Münster stores at the end of January 2003, with the site closing shortly thereafter amid ongoing lease negotiations, effectively ending its presence by mid-2003. Across both markets, HMV's European ventures struggled with a combination of high rental costs in prime urban locations, difficulties in localizing product assortments and merchandising to suit continental preferences, and the emerging threat of digital music distribution in the early . At its peak around , HMV maintained no more than ten stores combined in and , all of which were closed by 2007 as the company refocused on more viable international territories. These failures highlighted the challenges of replicating the model in competitive, price-driven environments dominated by local giants like in and in .

Asia-Pacific markets (Hong Kong, Singapore, and Qatar)

HMV entered the Hong Kong market in 1994 through a licensing agreement, establishing its first store amid growing demand for Western music and entertainment products in the region. By the late 1990s, the company had expanded to multiple outlets, capitalizing on Hong Kong's vibrant pop culture scene, though it faced challenges from local piracy and emerging online retailers. At its peak in the early 2000s, HMV operated around six stores in prime locations such as Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui, stocking CDs, DVDs, and later digital accessories, but sales declined due to streaming services and competition from platforms like YesAsia. In 2013, amid the UK parent's financial troubles, the Hong Kong operations were sold to private equity firm Aid Partners Capital for an undisclosed sum, allowing independent continuation. The business was later acquired by China 3D Digital Entertainment in 2016, but persistent drops in physical media sales—exacerbated by the rise of Apple products like AirPods—led to liquidation in December 2018, closing all seven remaining stores and laying off 80 employees, with debts of HK$40 million against assets of HK$9 million. In , HMV launched its flagship store in 1997 at The Heeren shopping center, a 25,000-square-foot outlet that became the country's largest music retailer at the time, attracting crowds with diverse selections including imports that resonated with local . The expansion included additional sites like Mall and 313@Somerset, peaking at three stores by the mid-2000s, where HMV adapted by promoting regional artists and hosting in-store events to counter piracy prevalent in . However, the shift to digital downloads and giants eroded foot traffic, prompting closures starting with in 2011 and Somerset in 2013. The final Marina Square outlet shut on September 30, 2015, ending HMV's physical presence after the 2013 sale to Aid Partners alongside operations. HMV ventured into the Gulf region with a 2015 partnership with Qatar-based Al Mana Lifestyle Trading, aiming for up to 15 stores across the but launching only one in at Al Mirqab Mall, focusing on music, films, and to tap into and local markets. The outlet operated for seven years, benefiting from Doha's mall culture but struggling with regional retail disruptions, including the pandemic's impact on in-person shopping. It closed in late 2022, shortly before the , as part of broader exits from non-core markets amid shifting consumer preferences toward online platforms. Across these markets, HMV's strategy emphasized licensing deals for low-risk entry and cultural adaptations, such as stocking in and in , yet piracy, streaming dominance, and e-commerce rivals like ultimately forced full withdrawals by 2022, contrasting with ongoing operations in . Total closures left no legacy physical stores, highlighting the challenges of physical retail in amid .

United States

HMV entered the market in 1990 as part of its broader international expansion strategy during the decade, opening its first two stores in at 86th Street and Lexington Avenue, and at Broadway and 72nd Street. The retailer, owned by at the time, aimed to replicate its success in by targeting urban centers with large music enthusiast populations. Subsequent openings followed in 1991, including locations in , , and , with additional stores in New York such as on and in . These early efforts were supported through direct investment rather than explicit partnerships, focusing on high-profile retail spaces to attract customers interested in diverse music selections. At its peak in the late , HMV operated fewer than 20 stores across the U.S., primarily along the East and West Coasts, with a concentration in New York. The stores emphasized imported recordings and to differentiate from domestic competitors like , capitalizing on HMV's British heritage in specialized entertainment retail. However, sales were constrained by high import duties on international merchandise, which increased costs and limited pricing competitiveness. By the early , the chain had scaled back, closing four stores in the ending April 2003 amid mounting losses of £2 million for the U.S. business. All remaining U.S. operations ceased by the end of 2004, with the closure of the final three stores, as HMV shifted resources to its more viable Canadian market. The decision was driven by intense competition from big-box retailers like and Wal-Mart, which undercut prices on CDs, and the rapid growth of online platforms such as Amazon, which eroded demand for in an increasingly digital landscape. High costs, particularly in prime New York locations, further exacerbated financial pressures, with annual rents reaching $1.5 million for a single store. This episode highlighted HMV's overestimation of sustained demand for physical music retail in the U.S., where digital disruption accelerated earlier than anticipated, leading to the brand's complete withdrawal from the market.

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  147. https://www.marketwatch.com/story/hmv-music-retailer-to-close-last-3-us-stores
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