In an innovative move, HMV is expanding its Oxford Street store to include a dedicated book floor, marking a new chapter in its retail offerings.
- The store will feature the hmv 363 Bookshop, a space devoted entirely to books, opening on 18 November.
- This initiative represents HMV’s first significant step into standalone literature retailing.
- The book floor will include a live events stage and a selection of both contemporary and classic titles.
- HMV aims to expand its literary offerings across all 121 UK stores depending on the success of this initial venture.
HMV is embarking on a novel venture with the introduction of a dedicated book floor at its Oxford Street flagship store. Known as the hmv 363 Bookshop, this initiative is set to open its doors on 18 November, right before the festive season gets into full swing. The decision to allocate an entire floor specifically for books signifies HMV’s first substantial foray into literature as a standalone retail category.
The new bookshop floor promises to captivate visitors with a live events stage, offering a platform for literary events and gatherings. According to the retailer, the selection of books will be a mix of hidden gems and well-loved favourites intended to thrill book enthusiasts.
Featured titles span from current bestsellers like ‘A Court of Silver Flames’ by Sarah J. Maas and Stephen King’s ‘Holly’, to beloved classics such as ‘A Clockwork Orange’ by Anthony Burgess and George Orwell’s ‘1984’. This curated collection is designed to appeal to various tastes, particularly those interested in music, film, and popular culture.
HMV’s Oxford Street store is pioneering this venture, but the company’s ambitions do not stop there. HMV has expressed plans to potentially expand this literary focus to its entire network of 121 stores across the UK, pending the success of the pilot.
HMV owner Doug Putman remarked on this strategic shift: “Whilst we have sold books online and have a selection in-store, I’ve always wanted to expand the offering. The hmv 363 Bookshop will be unlike any other bookshop on the high street, remaining true to our unique concept that centres on fans and community.”
Putman further highlighted that while music remains central to HMV’s identity, the retailer is equally passionate about providing spaces where fans of popular culture can engage with their interests amidst like-minded individuals.
HMV’s strategic expansion into book retailing at its Oxford Street store marks a significant development in its business model, potentially reshaping its future retail landscape.
