HMV to return to original Oxford Street store
Entertainment retailer HMV has confirmed that it has exchanged contracts to reopen at 363 Oxford Street, the site of its original store.
Most recently occupied by US sportswear retailer Footlocker, the store is famed for playing a role in the career of The Beatles. A 78 rpm demo disc of the band was cut in the store’s recording studio which it is claimed was instrumental in helping The Beatles to secure a long-term recording contract with EMI.
HMV originally opened the store in 1921, although the retailer was trading at 365 Oxford Street when it collapsed into administration earlier this year after moving to the larger premises 13 years ago. At the time of the move, a plaque was unveiled by The Beatles’ producer Sir George Martin to mark the store’s historical significance.
The new store at 363 Oxford Street is due to open in early October 2013 and will feature a recreation of the store’s iconic 1950s His Master’s Voice neon signage.
Paul McGowan, chairman of HMV, said: “We are thrilled to be returning to HMV to its original home at 363 Oxford Street and this reflects HMV’s renewed focus on going back to its roots and getting the basics right, providing the deepest range of entertainment products.”
