Video store closes as streaming reigns

The worldwide phenomenon of streaming has forced the closure of an Albany business after 35 years.

Claude Colalillo will close Albany Movie HQ after decades in business.

Mr Colalillo said his business had barely survived in the past three years.

“I have two reasons for closing down the shop — the first one is because our lease has finished,” he said.

“And No.2, well it’s just the right timing because of the age of downloading and streaming.

“As you can see, all video rentals shops are nearly gone by now.”

With more people accessing streaming sites like Netflix, Stan or Foxtel Now, video rental stores across Australia are shutting their doors.

Mr Colalillo said he would miss his video rental business, but he also understood why his customers opted to stream TV shows and movies.

“In the customers’ defence, I know it’s more convenient for them,” he said.

“Life is just faster these days.”

Mr Colalillo has been planning to close the shop for the past three years, postponing his decision because of his customers’ loyalty over the years.

He said he would miss them the most because he had enjoyed daily interaction with his customers and watching their family members grow over the years.

“I have had the business for 35 years — so I see these kids and they grow up and have kids themselves,” he said.

“I’ve seen three generations come through the shop — so this is something that I will miss the most.”

Albany Movie HQ is holding a closing down sale to clear out as many of the remaining DVDs, Blu-ray discs, TV series and games as possible.