Blockbuster’s store in Leighton Buzzard was yesterday declared safe for the time being after the DVD rental giant announced the closure of 129 locations.
As many as 760 staff across the UK are now facing redundancy after the rental company went into administration on Wednesday, but a spokesman for Blockbuster has said that one of their 528 shops in Waterborne Walk “is not scheduled for closure”.
The video and games rental company on is that have run into problems since the rising popularity of internet film rental services like iTunes, Netflix and Lovefilm.
A spokesman said that each store employs an average of five staff, about three-quarters of which are part-time.
Lee Manning, of administrators Deloitte, said: “The core of the business is still profitable and we will continue to trade as normal in both retail and rental while we seek a buyer.
“During this time gift cards and credit acquired through Blockbuster’s trade-in scheme will be honoured towards the purchase of goods.”
With HMV and Jessops also going into administration this year, the Local Data Company said this is the worst period for the High Street it has seen.
Director Matthew Hopkinson said: ““The administration and potential closure of over 1,400 stores in less than a month far surpasses Woolworths’ 807 in January 2009.”
After the announcement Blockbuster began to trend on Twitter across the UK and people from Leighton Buzzard commented on last week’s events.
Steve Goodwin said: “With the amount of films available on the net tv etc etc These stores are a thing of the past.”
Jamie Farmer said: “No need for shops like Blockbuster anymore really, with the likes of Sky, Netflix, LoveFilm and iTunes.”
Elation said: “Blockbusters are good for buying preowned Xbox games but I don’t think people hire DVDs anymore. It is a big shame though.”
Neil Wadsworth said: “Always found the staff friendly and helpful, be a shame if it closes.”
Gary Nostalgic said: “I’ve lived in LB for 4 years but have never visited the store which answers the question I’m afraid. Too many online alternatives.”
Paddy Taylor said: “We watch online mostly but still go to blockbusters at least once a month with the kids, I’d miss it.”
Karen Walker said: “No wont miss Blockbusters. Always over priced on sales and as for rentals it’s cheaper to use Love film or Netflix.”
Alan O’Hea said: “Didn’t know Leighton Buzzard had a blockbusters?”