The end of an era: Kmart axes DVDs and CDs from shelves

First it was record players and cassettes, now it’s DVDs and CDs. If you’ve noticed the number of DVDs and CDs beginning to dwindle at your local Kmart, sadly we are here to tell you, they aren’t going to be re-stocked.

Kmart confirmed this week it is doing away with the once loved items to make way for more in-house designed products.

And it’s not just in-store where they will be whipped off the shelves with the online store also axing the products. 

In a statement to Starts at 60, a Kmart spokesperson said the store is moving in a different direction and the rapid rise of online streaming and downloads has sent hard-copy products to the bargain bin. 

“As part of Kmart’s expanding range of in-house designed products we have made the decision to exit DVDs, CDs and Blu-ray products so as to allow space within the store for our new creative and activity based kids products,” they said.

“At present DVDs, CDs and Blu-ray products are currently on clearance as part of the transition, and we thank our customers and suppliers for their support.”

The rapid rise of the digital era has already done away with records, cassettes, and VHS tapes and now DVDs and CDs, once considered cutting-edge technology, are going the same way – not just in Kmart, but around the world. 

The music and film industries struggled to come to grips with online downloads and digital streaming for a long time, but the increasing popularity in recent years of sites such as Stan and Netflix, as well as Apple Music and Spotify, has seen a shift in the landscape as both consumers and industry heavyweights embraced the online world. 

While it’s great news for those who love new technology and are sick of looking at stacks of movies and CDs piling up around the house, the demise of tangible products is disappointing for those who’d rather be able to see and touch a product they paid for. 

And while other major retailers such as Target and Big W are still stocking DVDs and CDs, it won’t be long before they make the cut as well.

“I would have my head in the sand if I didn’t think that was going to be the case,” Australian Retailers Association boss Russell Zimmerman told The Herald Sun.

“Most people now just download their music or have a streaming service so the way in which we buy music and even DVDs has changed dramatically.”

Thankfully, there is still time to stock up on the family favourites as Kmart has slashed prices across its movies and music range in a bid to get rid of it all. 

However, you better get in quick because according to a Kmart spokesperson, there is no set date when sales will discontinue, with the products only around until stock runs out.

How do you feel about DVDs and CDs getting the axe from Kmart? Do you still buy them regularly?