Target refuses to sell Beyoncé album; but Wal-Mart will 'do what's right for the customer'
theGRIO REPORT - Critics love it and fans are buying it in droves. But one major retail chain is not feeling it...
Beyoncé’s new self-titled album has become a bonafide pop cultural event.
Critics love it and fans are buying it in droves. But one major retail chain is not feeling it.
Target stores nationwide will not be carrying the album reportedly because the singer released the album directly to iTunes, bypassing retailers.
Ironically, Target and the “Drunk In Love” singer collaborated previously on her last release, the album 4.
“At Target we focus on offering our guests a wide assortment of physical CDs, and when a new album is available digitally before it is available physically, it impacts demand and sales projections,” Target spokesperson Erica Julkowski told Billboard.
“While there are many aspects that contribute to our approach and we have appreciated partnering with Beyoncé in the past, we are primarily focused on offering CDs that will be available in a physical format at the same time as all other formats. At this time, Target will not be carrying Beyoncé’s new self-titled album Beyonce,” the company said in a statement.
She released her latest album digitally on December 13th. It features 14 new original songs and 17 music videos to accompany them. It is already the second-biggest seller of the year and the fastest-selling album in iTunes history.
“It’s so much that gets between the music and the artist and the fans. I felt like I don’t want anybody to give the message when my record is coming out. I just want this to come out when it’s ready and from me to my fans … I would make my best art and just put it out,” Beyoncé said recently.
On a more positive note, Wal-Mart is going to carry the hit album.
“We’re gonna do whats right for the customer. Our customers obviously love Beyoncé and we want to make sure we have it in stores… and it will be on this Friday,” Wal-Mart spokesperson Sarah McKinney told theGrio. “We’re releasing the album in approximately 4,000 stores nationwide. Our customers love Beyoncé so we’re excited to be able to offer them her new album. I’m sure it will be a top gift this Christmas.”
“People still love to buy physical CDs. There is a demand.”
