Big Blue launches $5.99 online plan
UPDATE: Retailer tests online, in-store synergy
By Cindy Spielvogel -- Video Business, 8/2/2006
AUG. 2 | Blockbuster Online has added a low-priced $5.99 a month plan and is running a test in which Web customers can return their movie to a Blockbuster store and get a free in-store movie rental.
Blockbuster Online's $5.99 plan, available to customers nationwide, matches the lowest-priced plan offered by Netflix.
Under the plan, subscribers get two rentals per month, the same as Netflix, plus coupons for two free in-store rentals per month.Blockbuster started the plan in mid-July, senior VP of corporate communications Karen Raskopf said. Like Netflix, Blockbuster continues to offer plans at higher tiers as well.As part of its online/in-store test, online subscribers can take their movie to the store in a sealed return envelope, and the store will return it to the Online division.The free in-store rental is subject to normal in-store rental rules, including no late fees, and it must be returned by the store’s normal due date. This rental offer is in addition to the free in-store rentals that are given with a Blockbuster Online subscription.
A Blockbuster spokeswoman said the test is running only in Colorado Springs.
The test allows Blockbuster Online subscribers the option of getting a new movie the same day they return it instead of waiting for a new one to be mailed and is available as an addition to the number of DVDs allowed out at a time from Blockbuster Online.
