Blockbuster UK finds a rescuing buyer, keeps staff and stores afloat

Blockbuster UK retail

When Blockbuster’s UK brand entered administration at the start of the year, there were concerns that it would ultimately prove just another casualty of the inexorable move toward online video. Not quite: Gordon Brothers Europe, a private equity firm known for rescuing troubled companies, has bought Blockbuster’s British assets. The acquirer isn’t disclosing the cash involved, but it plans to keep 2,000 workers and 264 stores in full swing while it plots a turnaround. That recovery is only described in vague terms at this stage, however — Gordon Brothers plans to bring “new products” and “new technologies” to the bruised retail chain. While we’re glad to see a one-time cornerstone of video rentals get a second chance, we hope that its bounce-back strategy involves a more futureproof selection than aisles full of plastic discs.

[Thanks, Steven]

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Via: Sky News

Source: Gordon Brothers Europe

Blockbuster’s UK video rental chain enters administration after 24 years

Blockbuster's UK video rental chain goes into administration after 24 years

BBC News is reporting that there’s another casualty on the British high street today as video rental chain Blockbuster enters administration. The company began life in the motherland back in March 1989 and, like several of its brethren, couldn’t compete against online offerings from Amazon (amongst others). It’s the second business in 48 hours to go under after HMV did the same yesterday. BBC News is also reporting that administrators Deloitte will continue to honor gift cards and will keep the stores trading in the hope of finding a buyer.

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Via: Victoria Fritz (Twitter)

Source: BBC News, (2)