Ricky Wong

DALLAS/DAYTON, Ohio, Aug. 4, 2008 – Blockbuster Inc. (NYSE: BBI, BBI.B), a leading global provider of media entertainment, and NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR), a global leader in self-service and assisted-service technology, have entered into an agreement to deploy Blockbuster-branded, state-of-the-art DVD vending kiosks in a pilot program that could be the first step of a national rollout of thousands of units.

"Consumers can now leave the comfort of their homes, drive several miles to a retail location and get a DVD without speaking to a human" said Jim Keyes, Blockbuster chairman and CEO. He adds, "Why would we allow our consumers to download movies instantly? Standing in line at one of our retail locations on Friday evening is integral to the entertainment experience" He cites Apple's iTunes as a horrible experience.

Select Blockbuster retail stores will also offer hot popcorn from Hello Kitty vending machines and other  conveniences.

In an effort to stay one step ahead, both Hollywood Video and Movie Gallery, simultaneously issued press releases announcing by the end of the year they will begin offering customers the ability to rent Video Home System cassettes (VHS) tapes.

Full (and Official) Press Release
Blockbuster and NCR Announce Strategic Alliance To Launch DVD Vending Kiosks