In a bold move to diversify its retail offerings, HMV has announced the opening of a dedicated book section at its flagship Oxford Street location, marking a significant expansion into literature. This new space, the “HMV 363 Bookshop,” is set to open on November 18, just in time for the holiday season, and will feature a range of live events as well as a curated selection of books that aims to captivate book lovers and pop culture fans alike.
The newly devoted floor will showcase a diverse collection of current bestsellers and timeless classics spanning music, film, and cultural topics. Among the featured titles are popular reads like A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas, Holly by Stephen King, and Satsuma Complex by Bob Mortimer, as well as literary staples such as A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess and 1984 by George Orwell.
This Oxford Street bookshop is the first of its kind for HMV, as the company explores broader literature sales within its 121 stores throughout the UK. The expansion is part of a larger vision by HMV’s owner, Doug Putman, to broaden HMV’s appeal and solidify its position as a high street hub for pop culture enthusiasts.
Creating a Unique Experience for Book Lovers
Although HMV has long offered books in both online and in-store formats, the new bookshop represents Putman’s vision of a community-oriented retail space where fans of popular culture can explore shared interests. “While music remains central to the HMV brand, we are committed to creating spaces where our community can come together, meet, and engage with the stories and characters they cherish,” he explained. The HMV 363 Bookshop will reflect this vision with live readings, author signings, and a stage dedicated to cultural events.
Reimagining Oxford Street as a Cultural Destination
Situated among leading book retailers like Waterstones and Foyles, the HMV 363 Bookshop is poised to enhance Oxford Street’s literary scene with a unique blend of music, film, and literature. The store will host author events, fan gatherings, and interactive sessions, providing a vibrant alternative to traditional bookshop experiences. Putman shared his excitement about the new space, noting that “the magic of Oxford Street lies in its capacity to reinvent itself, and with HMV’s expansion into books, we are inviting fans and readers alike to rediscover that spark.”
HMV’s Ongoing Evolution
This latest venture comes as HMV continues to strengthen its presence on the high street following its relaunch at the iconic 363 Oxford Circus site in 2023. Founded over a century ago, HMV has adapted to changing trends in entertainment by focusing on community-oriented spaces. The company recently reported growth in DVD and Blu-ray sales, underscoring consumers’ desire for physical media amid the rise of streaming.
With over 4,000 titles spanning a 2,500-square-foot area, the HMV 363 Bookshop will provide readers with an eclectic mix of genres, catering to various tastes and interests. As the festive season approaches, HMV hopes the new book floor will attract holiday shoppers and literature fans alike, offering them a dynamic space to explore their passions and connect with like-minded individuals.
