First it was the independent video rental shops, then it was Blockbuster, and now Rogers Plus is closing its doors.
Rogers head office confirmed Wednesday that it will be closing its two Burnaby locations at 6512 Hastings St. and 3433 North Rd. on Jan. 15.
"Customer demand is changing, and it's a business decision based on that," said Leigh-Ann Popek, Rogers' media relations manager. "We are closing a few stores throughout the country."
The closure of Rogers Plus pretty much brings an end to the traditional movie rental business in Burnaby as no dedicated, bricks-and-mortar video rental shops remain.
Popek said the company is beginning to move its focus towards "anytime, anywhere content demand," meaning streaming video services available through computers, wireless devices and cable boxes.
Rogers offers cable TV and video on demand through cable boxes in Eastern Canada but not in the West. Its Rogers On Demand Online service offers streaming TV episodes and movies and is available across Canada.
The closure of Rogers Plus will come as good news to movie collectors who can take advantage of a clearance sale to sell off the remaining stock. The sale begins on Dec. 5. Movie rentals will stop on Dec. 4.
"We're encouraging customers to stop in and pick up some great deals for the holidays," Popek said.
The two Burnaby locations currently both employ about 10 people. Popek said the company plans to assist employees.
"Whenever we make a business decision that affects employees, it's obviously a tough decision. We're going to work with them through the transition. We are going to look at other opportunities."
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