Revered record store, Idle Hands, issues warning amidst coronavirus

Idle Hands, Bristol, has taken to social media to warn the music community of the effect COVID-19 can have on independent music and record shops. Voted by Vinyl Factory as the 45th best record shop in the world, Idle Hands has been operating since 2009, both online and in-store. The company has said that Idle Hands, and other stores alike, may face indefinite closure if the coronavirus situation continues to get out of hand.

The statement across Facebook and Instagram read:

“This is a worrying time for everyone and a situation none of us are used to. Events are moving fast and we have to accept that major disruption is on its way. If Italy is anything to go by, shops like Idle Hands will be forced to close indefinitely”

I’m proud to have survived almost a decade through some of the worst economic challenges we’ve seen in our lifetime. It might look like an easy job because the shop is still here and consistently opening its doors, but there have been times where Idle Hands has survived by the skin of its teeth – especially with the recent uncertainty of Brexit”

If at any time over the last nine years you’ve enjoyed coming to the shop, I’d ask that you please support us in whatever way you can over the coming weeks or however long we’re still able to be open. Come in and buy records, like and share our social media posts, buy online and share our website with your friends, give us a good review, but most importantly consider making your next vinyl purchase through us”.

You can show your support for Idle Hands through its online store.

It’s no secret that COVID-19 is affecting the music technology scene across the globe, with closures across festivals, expos and local gigs. To see the events being affected in music technology, click here.

For more industry news click here.