Music Fans 'Not Surprised' By HMV Store Closures

Music fans have said they are “not surprised” by HMV's decision to close 40 stores.

The proposed closures, which will take place over the next twelve months, follow weaker than expected profits over Christmas.

Many music fans have contacted Gigwise via Twitter and our comment forms in response to the decision, which will also see 20 Waterstones stores shut.

“I'm not surprised,” said one Twitter user, RyanPlugs. “Their prices are usually the most expensive out of supermarkets and buying online.”

DaveNeddyGough agreed - and said he believed it marked the start of the end for music on the High Street.

“[It's] the first year ever I didn't buy anything in store before or after Chrsitmas,” he said. “Is shame but HMV was a bit soulless anyway.”

Twitter user TheBlueWalrus claimed the music retailer no longer offered a wide range of music.

BritDawson said she had mixed emotions about the closures.

"I think it's sad to see some go because it's the main recognised store for cd's but then again, they're not closing down completely and it may give independent record stores the more business that they deserve.

She added: "I do think it's a shame that they have to close though, it's partly because of the illegal downloading of music which is disgusting."

HMV's sales were down 10% over Christmas, which the company blamed on the severe weather across the UK and “challenging trading conditions”.

The announcement, which came a week earlier than expected, has prompted shares in HMV to fall by 24%.

MORE: Rough Trade Counters HMV With Christmas Sales Boost.