A really interesting read as always. Thanks Gareth.
You briefly mention HMV’s high street presence. It’s something that puzzles and fascinates me. How and why does the hedge fund-owned Waterstone’s get everything right that HMV, owned by a successful music retailer, gets wrong? Book buyers would mourn the loss of Waterstone’s, but if HMV disappeared tomorrow would music lovers care? Though profits are up, apparently. American sweets must sell better than we think.
I think there would be some sadness, but I agree that Waterstones would see a much greater reaction. The profits thing is interesting, but probably to be expected after two years affected by lockdowns. Still curious to see where it goes next.
A really interesting read as always. Thanks Gareth.
You briefly mention HMV’s high street presence. It’s something that puzzles and fascinates me. How and why does the hedge fund-owned Waterstone’s get everything right that HMV, owned by a successful music retailer, gets wrong? Book buyers would mourn the loss of Waterstone’s, but if HMV disappeared tomorrow would music lovers care? Though profits are up, apparently. American sweets must sell better than we think.
I think there would be some sadness, but I agree that Waterstones would see a much greater reaction. The profits thing is interesting, but probably to be expected after two years affected by lockdowns. Still curious to see where it goes next.