Blockbuster shifts strategies to improve its video rental business

Article Abstract:

Blockbuster Entertainment Corp will intensify its efforts to improve sales to convince investors who have become wary of the video rental chain since it went public in Aug 1999. Other factors that are lowering investor confidence in Blockbuster are a dramatic slowdown in same-store sales in the domestic market and fears about the future of video rentals. Blockbuster has therefore focused on a series of strategic partnerships as well as a reinvigorated Web site to improve business and to restore investor confidence.

Blockbuster to offer movies via DSL

Article Abstract:

Blockbuster Entertainment Corp will begin offering movies-on-demand through high-speed telephone digital subscriber lines (DSL). The home video distributor gained access to the technology after forging a 20-year agreement with technology firm Enron Broadband Services on Jul 19, 2000. Blockbuster, a unit of Viacom, will be able to receive DSL service from such telephone companies as Covad Communications, Qwest, Verizon and SBC Communications.

Services information

Video stores quit fighting DVDs

Article Abstract:

Video Software Dealers Association (VSDA) President Jeffrey Eves has stated that consumers will be able to rent DVD players, which offer sharp pictures and CD-quality sound, via video stores within two months. A number of video store chains, including Blockbuster, have already expressed their interest to rent DVD players. DVD has been perceived as a threat among video stores considering that almost 50% of VCR owners say they are interested in the technology, according to a study sponsored by the VSDA.

Comment:

Consumers will be able to rent DVD players, which offer sharp pictures and CD-quality sound, via video stores within two months

Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing, Home Video Disc Players, Videodisk players, Article