Video Rental: Evolution, Impact of COVID-19, and Future Trends in Self-Service Kiosks

How Has the Video Rental Space Evolved?

The trajectory of the video rental industry has been marked by significant evolutionary strides. Originally structured around brick-and-mortar stores, a shift to digital platforms came with the burgeoning internet era. This saw sprawling entities, such as Blockbuster, be upended by innovative services like Netflix and Amazon Video, which provided a myriad of films at consumers digital fingertips. More recently, however, self-service kiosks have edged into the market scene offering a blend of convenience and physical tangibility.

What has been the Impact of COVID-19 on the Industry?

The global pandemic has precipitated a shift in the consumption habits on a macroeconomic scale. Stay-at-home mandates have endorsed VOD (Video on Demand) services, resulting in heightened demand. Nonetheless, self-service kiosks, positioned in easily accessible locations, have demonstrated resilience, partly due to convenience and unbroken accessibility during lockdown. However, stringent sanitization requirements and the rise of contactless transactions impose challenges to this segment.

What Future Trends Can be Expected in Video Rental Self-Service Kiosks?

The advent of more advanced technologies, combined with changing consumer behavior, is likely to shape the future of self-service kiosks in the video rental industry. Increased adoption of contactless and mobile technologies, for instance, could lead to the mitigation of health-related concerns. Additionally, the offering of a wider array of content, including newer releases, could further enhance the attractiveness of these kiosks to consumers.