PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
HMV has downplayed speculation over a new wave of discounting after an ITV business reporter suggested it might be a way of raising funds ahead of debt deadlines.
Announced earlier this week, the blue cross sale is set to take place in over 230 HMV stores across the UK and Ireland, with the retailer slashing up to 25 per cent off a number of its product ranges, including CDs, DVDs, Games and other tech products.
Following the news, ITV business reporter Laura Kuenssberg speculated on Twitter that HMV’s motives for the sale were to generate new funds in order to pay off looming debt deadlines.
However, HMV’s head of press and PR Gennaro Castaldo told PCR that the rumours are unfounded and it’s business as usual for the retailer.
"We just thought we’d try something a bit different," said Castaldo.
"It’s a purely commercial event at a time of year when retailers have sales and promotions."
Whilst the newly announced sale is in addition to the firm’s Boxing Day sale and has not previously been an annual event for the firm, it is not uncommon for HMV to announce discount events throughout the year.
Even so, the timing of the sale is unfortunate for the retailer, which announced back in December it would likely breach its financial covenants in January as it continues to tackle its mounting debt.
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