HMV, the iconic music and entertainment retailer, is preparing to make a comeback in Chelmsford city centre later this year. The brand will launch a new store at the Meadows Shopping Centre, more than two years after its previous location at High Chelmer Shopping Centre shut down in 2024.
The High Chelmer store had been a fixture for over two decades, hosting numerous album signings and events with major figures from the music and entertainment world. While an exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, HMV has indicated the store will open "later this year" and has already begun hiring for supervisor and sales assistant roles.
HMV will join existing tenants at the Meadows Shopping Centre, including Burger King, Costa, and Suit Direct. The arrival follows news that Smoke and Pepper, a burger and fried chicken eatery, is scheduled to open in April, while Hollywood Bowl will take up a unit before the year ends.
An HMV spokesperson said: "HMV is excited to open a new shop in Chelmsford later this year. While we are unable to share any details at the moment, we will share further information nearer the time."
The chain previously entered administration twice: first in January 2013 and again in December 2018. However, in early 2019, HMV was acquired by Sunrise Records, a Canadian music retailer owned by Doug Putman, which preserved approximately 100 stores and the majority of jobs. Since then, the retailer has expanded beyond DVDs and CDs, focusing on vinyl records, pop culture merchandise, tech accessories, and hosting live in-store performances.
