The future of Oxford's Fopp record store in Oxford looks uncertain after HMV went into administration for the second time in six years.
More than 2,000 employees in 130 shops across the UK - including at nine Fopp stores run by HMV's owners - face losing their jobs after HMV Retail confirmed it would appoint KPMG as administrator.
Fopp returned to Gloucester Green in the summer of 2016 after an eight-year hiatus and its vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, T-shirts and video games have attracted a loyal following.
In 2013 HMV was bought out of administration by Hilco Capital and the chain made a comeback.
Paul McGowan, executive chairman of HMV and chief executive of Hilco, said the market for DVDs has deteriorated rapidly in the past year, as consumers switched to streaming services such as Netflix.
The business will continue to trade while options are explored, including a potential sale, KPMG said.
Will Wright, partner at KPMG and joint administrator, said: “Whilst we understand that it has continued to outperform the overall market decline in physical music and visual sales, as well as growing a profitable ecommerce business, the company has suffered from the ongoing wave of digital disruption sweeping across the entertainment industry.
“This has been in addition to the ongoing pressures facing many high street retailers, including weakening consumer confidence, rising costs and business rates pressures.
“Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern while we assess options for the business, including a possible sale.
“Customers with gift cards are advised that the cards will be honoured as usual, while the business continues to trade.”
It is understood that HMV bosses have been working on a plan to bring together a consortium of film industry heavyweights to support the firm.
Discussions between Hollywood firms are expected to continue in the coming days that could lead to a rescue deal.
If Fopp in Gloucester Green is forced to close, Blackwell's music store in Broad Street will be the only city centre outlet selling a range of new vinyl and CDs.
Or music fans can venture out to the Cowley Road where Truck Store will be able to meet their crate-digging needs.
Truck's sister store Rapture in Witney sells new vinyl and CDs and has a large section selling second-hand vinyl.
If Fopp does close for the second time, it will mean another vacant unit at Gloucester Green, which is already suffering following the closure of chain restaurant El Mexicana and Combibos coffee shop in the summer.
Six months on from their closures homeless people have been bedding down in their doorways.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel