WHSmith is reintroducing vinyl records in 80 UK stores due to rising customer interest.
- The reintroduction includes chart hits and classic albums to cater to diverse tastes.
- Vinyl records were a staple for WHSmith since the 1950s but were phased out for CDs 30 years ago.
- Sales of vinyl have surged, with a notable 11.7% increase reported by BPI last year.
- The initiative aims to attract both long-time vinyl enthusiasts and new listeners.
WHSmith is reintroducing vinyl records to its product range in response to a significant increase in customer demand for the format. The decision will see the availability of vinyl in 80 of its stores across the United Kingdom, including significant locations such as Canterbury, Chester, Edinburgh, and York.
The selection will encompass both contemporary chart hits and classic albums, appealing to a broad demographic of music enthusiasts. This strategic move highlights the chain’s effort to diversify its entertainment offerings in line with market trends.
WHSmith has a historical connection with vinyl records, having started to sell them in the 1950s. However, the company paused vinyl sales about thirty years ago as compact discs (CDs) grew in popularity. This transition was mirrored across many retailers as technology evolved.
The return of vinyl has been remarkable, with sales figures showing a fourfold increase over the past few years, underscoring the format’s revival in popularity. The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) documented a substantial 11.7% sales boost last year, reaching 5.9 million units.
Emma Smyth, WHSmith High Street’s commercial director, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating: “After thirty years vinyl is back at WHSmith! I’m sure there are many customers out there who remember spending hours in record shops browsing the latest vinyl LPs and the artistic record covers.” This statement reflects the chain’s vision to rekindle interest in physical music formats among seasoned collectors and new audiences.
WHSmith’s strategic reintroduction of vinyl records taps into the nostalgia and renewed consumer interest, ensuring its relevance in an evolving market.
