Blockbuster closes stores

Safeway might not seem to have any connection to Blockbuster, but it turns out the supermarket operator is the landlord of several Blockbuster stores slated for closure. Safeway has filed a motion to ensure the liquidations don't disrupt neighboring businesses.

Blockbuster's long anticipated bankruptcy filing is apparently headed down the final stretch and could come by the end of the week. One of the cost-cutting moves the video chain is teeing up calls for 500 to 800 additional store closures beyond the nearly 1,000 it previously planned.

Blockbuster is considering closing 960 stores as it tries to compete with new media formats and retail models, that's 20% of its store base potentially gone. Even with more rental kiosks planned, it's getting more difficult for traditional physical stores to compete. Massive store closures have...