Blockbuster Offers Free Rentals Via Expanded Rental Program
A new component to Blockbuster’s online DVD rental program rewards customers for returning movies in-store instead of the through the mail.
Under Blockbuster’s Total Access program, members who return DVD rentals at any store will receive a free movie rental. The incentive reduces the wait time to receive DVDs in the mail, doubling the number of movies members can rent each month while boosting revenue, the company said.
In-store signage, P-O-P and online materials support. Blockbuster operates more than 5,000 stores nationwide.
In addition, members who use the in-store exchange option will have quicker access to their movie selections. When subscribers return DVDs in-store, Blockbuster will mail the next title on their list. Plans range from $5.99 to $17.99 a month. As an added incentive, the company will also distribute a free movie rental coupon to Total Access users each month.
A free two-week trial membership is available at Blockbuster.com.
Blockbuster rolled out its online rental service more than two years ago to gain market share against rival Netflix. Like Netflix, the online program includes no due dates or late fees.
The Dallas-based chain kicked off the Total Access program this month at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood. To hype up the service, Blockbuster awarded its first celebrity VIP membership to singer Jessica Simpson.
