HMV expands its Oxford Street flagship by dedicating an entire floor to books, marking a significant new venture into literature.
- The dedicated book floor will officially open on November 18, coinciding with the onset of the festive season.
- A diverse collection of contemporary and classic literature, including bestsellers and timeless works, will be featured.
- This new offering includes a live events stage designed to engage and delight book enthusiasts and the broader community.
- HMV plans to evaluate potential expansion of this literary venture across its other UK stores.
HMV is making a strategic move to expand its offerings at the iconic Oxford Street location by dedicating an entire floor to books, representing its first major entry into the standalone literature market within its retail environment. The store has announced the opening of this new space, known as hmv 363 Bookshop, set for November 18, just in time for the bustling holiday shopping period. The initiative is part of HMV’s broader vision to create a unique destination for fans of various cultural mediums.
Visitors to the hmv 363 Bookshop will find an extensive selection of literature that spans both current bestsellers and classic titles. Among the prominent authors featured are Sarah J. Maas, Stephen King, and Bob Mortimer, alongside timeless classics like Anthony Burgess’s ‘A Clockwork Orange’ and George Orwell’s ‘1984’. This curated book range aims to captivate both casual readers and devoted bibliophiles by bringing together hidden gems and mainstream hits.
The book floor is not solely about purchasing books. It includes a live events stage that is expected to host a variety of engaging events, strengthening HMV’s commitment to fostering a community around popular culture. In this space, enthusiasts can gather to discuss and explore their interests in music, film, and now literature, enriching the cultural fabric of the Oxford Street store.
Doug Putman, HMV’s owner, expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter, emphasizing the long-standing aspiration to expand HMV’s book offerings. He stated, “Whilst we have sold books online and have a selection of books available in-store, I’ve always wanted to expand the offering. The hmv 363 Bookshop space at our flagship will be unlike any other bookshop on the high street.” His vision is to create an environment where fans can meet and celebrate the stories and characters that resonate with them.
HMV plans to use this Oxford Street endeavor as a pilot for potential literary expansions across its network of 121 UK stores. By trialing this concept in such a prominent location, HMV seeks to gather insights and gauge consumer interest, potentially paving the way for a broader rollout in the future.
HMV stands at the cusp of a new era by embracing literary retail, potentially reshaping its store experience across the UK.
