HMV and Fopp stores reopen

Music, movies and books retailer HMV is launching personal shopping services as it gears up to reopen half of its Scottish branches on Monday.

A “list and leave” service and a “ring and reserve” system are being ushered in to create a “personal shopping experience” for music fans, with hand sanitiser stations in store.

The six stores reopening on 29 June are HMV outlets in Aberdeen, Ayr, Dundee and Glasgow, along with the sister chain Fopp branches in Edinburgh and Glasgow. A further six HMV stores, situated in shopping centres, will reopen in line with the Scottish Government’s route map, the retailer added.

The firm said staff have all undergone an “extensive Covid-security training programme” ahead of welcoming music and film fans back into stores while all returned items are to be effectively quarantined for 72 hours.

Thechainisexpectingstrong initial sales based on its rollout of re-openings across the rest of the UK, including Wales, where three stores opened on Monday.

HMV is one of the last major music retailers on the high street having battled the onslaught of online giant Amazon and digital downloading and streaming services. It has benefited from the vinyl revival while DVD television boxsets have remained popular.

Doug Putman, owner of HMV, said: “We can’t wait to welcome Scottish shoppers back to HMV and Fopp stores in a safe, controlled manner.

“Our store teams have been working on plans to reopen since the day we had to close our doors, with redesigned layouts that mean customers can buy what they want and pay seamlessly, while leaving room for those who want to browse.”

Chris Taylor, HMV and Fopp regional manager, added: “We’re really looking forward to seeing our loyal customers once again.”