Just a few months ago, national retailer Best Buy decided to add musical instruments and recording equipment to its already diverse line of products in a few test markets. The move proved so successful that this past weekend they opened their largest outlet to date at the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minn.—one of the best-known shopping and entertainment destinations in the United States—complete with a section devoted exclusively to musical instruments and recording equipment.
Seeing a great opportunity to expand its customer base, Gibson has partnered with the retail giant to include a full line of guitars and products from Gibson Custom, Gibson USA, Gibson Acoustics, and Epiphone in Best Buy locations that sell musical instruments. And the move isn’t limited to just the Minneapolis area—also home to Best Buy’s corporate headquarters. The company is already selling musical instruments and recording equipment, including Gibson guitars and products, in 13 other locations, and plan on outfitting an additional 75-85 stores with the company's "store within a store" concept. They also plan on offering group and individual guitar lessons at each location.
“The introduction of musical instruments is a natural progression for Best Buy,” explained Steve Hehir, senior vice president of musical instruments for Best Buy. “Consumers have always looked to us as a resource for music in a variety of formats. Now they’ll be able to rely on us for help with musical performance and creating too.”
The Best Buy grand opening in Minneapolis will also be the home of the company's new Best Buy Rotunda at Mall of America, which will host a variety of entertainment ranging from musical performances and celebrity appearances to game launches. An entire lineup of world-class performers, celebrities, and special events greeted shoppers this past weekend at the Best Buy Rotunda, including New Kids on the Block, NBA basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and a Best Buy Madden NFL Tailgate Party to introduce the new Best Buy ’08 Madden Challenge. The grand opening continues through next weekend, with an appearance by former Minnesota Twin baseball legend Harmon Killibrew and current centerfielder Carlos Gomez. Both will be signing autographs and taking pictures at the Best Buy Rotunda on August 17.
“We are excited to bring the latest in technology and services to this popular venue,” said Brian J. Dunn, president and COO of Best Buy, referring to the Mall of America store. “Our new 45,000-square foot store gives us a prominent presence within the mall, which is only a short distance from our U.S.-based headquarters. We also look forward to hosting a number of special events at the Mall that will provide our customers with amazing and inspiring entertainment experiences.”
For more information on which Best Buy locations sell Gibson and Epiphone products, click here. —Gabriel J. Hernandez