What's happened
WH Smith is set to stock vinyl records in 80 UK stores, marking a return after over 30 years. This move comes as vinyl sales surged by 11.7% in 2023, driven by popular artists like Taylor Swift. The retailer aims to attract both seasoned fans and new listeners.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Mabel Banfield-Nwachi in The Guardian, WH Smith's decision to reintroduce vinyl is a response to the format's growing popularity, with sales reaching 5.9 million units in 2023. Emma Smyth, WH Smith's commercial director, expressed excitement about catering to both seasoned fans and new listeners. The Scotsman highlights that vinyl sales have surged by 11.7%, driven by new releases from artists like Taylor Swift and Oasis. Holly Williams from The Independent notes that WH Smith's move is part of a broader strategy to revitalize its offerings, including plans to open Toys 'R' Us concessions in stores.
How we got here
Vinyl records saw a decline in the 1990s with the rise of CDs. However, recent years have witnessed a resurgence in vinyl popularity, with sales reaching nearly six million units in 2023, the highest since 1990.
Common question
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Why is WH Smith Bringing Back Vinyl Albums?
WH Smith's decision to reintroduce vinyl records in 80 UK stores marks a significant shift in the retail landscape, reflecting a growing trend in music consumption. As vinyl sales continue to rise, many are curious about the reasons behind this revival and its implications for both the retailer and the music industry. Below, we explore common questions surrounding this exciting development.
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What is driving the resurgence of vinyl records in 2024?
Vinyl records are making a significant comeback, with retailers like WH Smith reintroducing them to their shelves after decades. This trend raises questions about the factors behind the vinyl revival, its impact on music sales, and the demographics driving this interest. Below, we explore the key aspects of this fascinating phenomenon.
More on these topics
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Taylor Alison Swift is an American singer-songwriter. Her narrative songwriting, which often centers around her personal life, has received widespread media coverage.
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The British Phonographic Industry Ltd is the British recorded music industry's trade association. It runs the BRIT Awards, the Classic BRIT Awards, National Album Day, is home to the Mercury Prize, and co-owns the Official Charts Company with the Entertai