Blockbuster Claims Bankruptcy in Portugal
Source:Unbeatable Date:Thursday, 11 February 2010. Article Type:General
Once upon a time, a trip to Blockbuster was a Saturday evening ritual. In those days there was no Netflix or digital downloads. With such a significant change in technology and a hike in Blockbuster prices, customers have little need to return to the movie rental store. Why get in your car and fight traffic, when you can sit at home and let the DVD come to you?
Although Blockbuster has attempted everything it could to keep its customers from the 90's, the company couldn't overcome the change in technology. For years, they were cast in a negative light for exorbitant late fees and short rental periods. When Netflix came about, renters saw just how wonderful the experience of renting a movie could actually be.
Stores have been becoming scarce in the US and things look even worse for Blockbuster in Portugal as they file for bankruptcy. The 17 stores left standing, down from around 30 over the last decade, are also struggling to survive. Blockbuster blames a lack of government response to internet piracy for its downward spiral. Perhaps Blockbuster should look within their own walls of running an out of date business predating internet streaming and digital downloads before they point the finger at anyone else.