70. Virgin Megastores

70. Virgin Megastores
Tags: Top 100 Retail
January 26, 2010

The reign of Virgin Megastores as tourist attractions came to an end with the closing of all six U.S. locations. The stores in general remained profitable, but the chain's new owners have determined that they could earn higher rents from new tenants instead. The 150-plus Virgin Megastores outside the U.S., which are licensed to local owners, will remain open. Whatever the reasons for the shutdown, the closings have some music lovers wondering whether online music downloads soon will become the only way to purchase music in the United States.

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