Tempting offerings

Press, 9 November 1984, Page 11

Tempting offerings

WIO

By

BOB HALLIDAY

For its population, Christchurch is richly supplied with video outlets. On the face of it, this looks good for the viewer: competition should ensure that the customer gets a good deal. However, there are rumours that over the next year or so the competition will become so cut-throat that some weaker outlets may go under, leaving the viewer wondering what happened to the money spent on his life membership fee.

The proud owner of a new video recorder may face the temptation to rush round and join several video clubs. I suggest a quiet investigation first: pick out a number of outlets that suit for loca-

tion, go to each and obtain full details of the services they offer, and then sit down and work out which offers the best deal for you. Points to look for:

® All outlets stock VHS tapes: only some stock Beta tapes. © The outlet should be dose to home or work.

© Extended hours, opening ‘seven days a week, offers flexibility.

© The range of tapes should include your particular preference. ® A 24-hour “drop box” is useful for returning tapes after hours.

© Membership fees should be reasonable: $25

The average daily hire rate for one movie is $5. Some outlets split their stock into two groups: lowpriced tapes at $3 or $4; and higher priced ones at $5 or

Some outlets stock a wide range of tapes including a surprising number of more obscure cult-movies. “Eraserhead” is one example. Others stick to the more popular adventure movies, while a few are somewhat puritanical and limit themselves to approved “family” viewing. Careful comparison of the rates and deals offered By all the clubs is recommended.