The changing face of the high street

The recent news that the UK chain HMV is going into administration should not come as a surprise. The method of distribution for many items we buy has changed with the availability of the internet. But, it does not have to spell the end for many stores. In the case of HMV perhaps a change in model could work quite well. Often the staff at a record store are quite knowledegable and would save customers some time (especially if they are looking for a gift or are entering an unfamiliar genre). HMV could offer free advice, internet connection and a cafe (and perhaps music booths). I have clearly not cost such a model, but such an approach coupled with encouraging people to go through the HMV site to purchase items could work. The "value-add" (ie expert advice, communal area etc) is something that people perhaps would see as worth having. Perhaps it's something worth considering?