Dueling Video Store Closure Sales in Davis Mean Great Deals Worth the Short Drive

Since 1984, John Merchant, owner of 49er Video, has successfully kept his finger on the pulse of trends in the video/DVD industry. But he says watching the most important trend of all convinced him recently it was time to retire.

"Five years from now, 50 percent of all the movies Americans watch will be streaming online," Merchant said.

He has entertained various proposals from people who are interested in purchasing 49er video and its vast collection to keep this great resource open. But, Merchant says he couldn't sell in good conscience –not with the reality of streaming video looming.

It’s a trend that recently touched Dixon’s Blockbuster Video, which in January held a . With more and more customers logging on for their movies, and visiting easily accessible kiosks that are popping up all over town – even major video rental companies are having a tough time competing. 

But before Merchant closes his doors and retires, he’s putting the entire 70,000-title 49er inventory up for sale to members of the public. And what an inventory it is – from obscure pre-Code 1930s movies (made before Hollywood censored too-real screwball comedies and gangster dramas) to silent films, Art House films, sci-fi classics, vintage TV shows (favorites available in complete season boxed series), anime, and much more.

If you've been looking to own a particular movie or show that's been too pricey online, talk to Mr. Merchant. He'll direct you down the right aisle and may even be in a mood to dicker.

And just like Dixon’s Blockbuster, Davis' Blockbuster announced this past weekend its plans to also go out of business.

According to a spokesperson, "the landlord raised the rent on us by about $8,000 a month."

The landlord has had offers from parties interested in paying the high rent for the privilege of converting the space and opening yet another restaurant to add to Downtown Davis's competitive mix. Blockbuster's closure sale features drastic price cuts on mainstream videos, games, posters and more. Prices, the spokesperson said, will drop incrementally as the sale draws to a close.