HMV is one the United Kingdom and Irelands leading specialist music and DVD/Video retailers, also stocking computer games and related products. HMV operates around 200 stores in major shopping areas throughout the United Kingdom as well as operating a successful online store.
The HMV story began way back in 1921 when acclaimed British composer, Sir Edward Elgar officially opened the first store in Oxford Street, London. This flagship store was at the time the most lavish and modern retail outlet ever seen by the British public, proudly displaying an illuminated electric motion sign, very progressive for the times.
HMV would go on to play a significant role shaping this history of popular music in Britain laying claim to being the place where the Beatles got their break. The HMV brand continued to grow and the now famous “his master’s voice” dog and trumpet logo became instantly recognisable.
HMV had created such momentum by the time the 1980’s and 1990’s came around that they were able to expand their enterprise to include what we know as superstores. HMV discount vouchers were launched in all major population centres around the United Kingdom, including Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Southampton, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Newcastle. HMV was then able to successfully export the HMV brand worldwide, making big strides in North America and South East Asia.