new Blockbuster rates beginning Dec 27, 2007

[JohnnyBob]

Sorry, don't know if this is OT here, but couldn't find a better slot...

New Blockbuster movie subscription rental fees starting December 27, 2007:
http://seekingalpha.com/article/58029-citi-upgrades-netflix-on-blockbuster-s-price-inc...se?source=feed
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUKN2020309620071220?rpc=44
http://www.hackingnetflix.com/

They're supposed to be posted on the Blockbuster website on that date, but some customers are getting advance email notices. Here's what I've garnered so far. Some prices are going up, others down. Please feel free to correct my data or fill in the blanks...

$4.99 goes down to $3.99 for 1-out-at-a-time, 2 movies per month, mail only
$16.99 goes down to $15.99 for 3-out-at-a-time unlimited, mail only
$17.99 goes up to $19.99 for 3-out-at-a-time unlimited mail, plus 5 free in-store
$24.95 goes up to $34.99 for 3-out-at-a-time unlimited mail, plus unlimited store

[zoobie]

good ol' Ballbuster...nothing like raising the prices 29%

[Nilfennasion]

$24.95 to $34.99 is more like 40%.

I can see what they are trying to do with this new pricing model, and I cannot say as I am surprised. They are effectively trying to encourage less actual disc rentals per month, so as to maximise their bang for buck. Just a quick look at the plans pretty much tells you which ones they were previously making money on and which were losers, so to speak.

[MikieV]

Just a quick look at the plans pretty much tells you which ones they were previously making money on and which were losers, so to speak.

Yeah, in summary:

Mail only? = price goes down
Walk-ins at your local store? = price goes up
unlimited local? = bend over

[CubDukat]

To mangle a phrase from Jack Nicholson in "Carnal Knowledge," "Me and Blockbuster are gonna have to work out a trial separation."

I gotta wonder if Netflix isn't thinking of doing an in-store deal themselves with Hollywood Video. Somehow that would only seem logical.

[tumbar]

My guess is everyone including the franchise stores initially wanted to kick netfliks butt.

Now after 6 months or so the local stores are bitching.....great idea for pappa blockbuster, but we, the local store, don't make any money on total access.

I'd bet the increase is going to the local store.

[TooLFooL]

this is the SECOND price increase - they already raised them a few months ago. they obviously reeled everybody in with thier initial 'to-good-to-be-true' pricing.

[Rich86]

I don't use Blockbuster for anything.
This certainly would not cause anyone to develop the urge to try them out.
Guess they just want to screw existing customers and avoid any new ones.
Chasing Netflix is probably a lost cause without the "in-store" connection/advantage . . .

[classfour]

This was the third change in 2007. I canceled the service - I was happy with 5 out at a time for $27.95, it was a nice setup for watching episodic sets. In one year I went from that, to 4 out for $24.95, to 3 with unlimited in store rentals for $24.95 (not a bad deal if you like going to the store to rent - which I don't), and just received notice they were jacking it to $34.95. BTW: I did send them a nice little note with my cancellation - not like BB cares, but I won't be dealing with them any more. I can drive to other rental stores easier, and have other discounts that raise their appeal, and not have to hope BB will have one on the shelf that I want to rent.

[MOVIEGEEK]

I haven't rented from BB since I signed up with Netflix.
I agree with tumbar that this price increase is going to hurt the franchises.

[MeDiCo_BrUjO]

Beat you for 11 1/2 hours.

https://forum.videohelp.com/topic342597.html