HMV to offer Wi-Fi in new store

The new outlet from UK-based entertainment retail chain HMV will offer free Wi-Fi access to customers as well as a social media cafe and various mobile connection points, as the firm attempts to shape its offering to fit the new multi-channel market.

HMV has suffered a number of setbacks in recent years as the digitalisation of the music industry continues apace and CD sales slump dramatically.

A spokesperson suggested that this is the beginning of a major "transformation" of the retail offering provided by the firm.

"HMV is increasingly developing a fully-fledged multi-channel offer across its combined store, online and digital estate," the added.

This comes after the company revealed its sales fell below £1 billion for the first time in 2011, as online sales continue to dominate the music and film market.

The number of wireless broadband hotspots operated by iPass recently exceeded one million worldwide, indicating the increasing expectation among consumers that they will be able to access the internet wherever they are.

Figures revealed that the iPass connections are operational in over 56,000 hotels, 2,600 airports and 61,000 other public places.