HMV launches into download market

HMV has launched into the music download market with its new HMV Digital site, competing in a market that already includes Apple’s iTunes.

The company sees digital as an important part of the diversification of both HMV and sister company Waterstones . The bookseller’s e-book store recently marked its millionth download, and now HMV has moved into digital download, thanks to its acquisition of 7digital.com.

Sarah Hughes, HMV’s head of online and digital, said: “We are delighted to launch a world class download store that reflects both HMV’s music retailing heritage and our strategy to be a broad-based entertainment brand.

“Our partners at 7Digital have built for us a significantly improved new site that looks great and has never been easier to use. With so many innovative and wonderful features, it offers a truly intuitive and engaging customer experience that I very much hope will lead to HMV becoming a bigger player in the burgeoning digital market.”