Hastings Entertainment

Hastings Entertainment was a well-known retail chain specializing in books, music, movies, video games, and pop culture merchandise. The company began in Amarillo, Texas, in 1968, when Sam Marmaduke opened the first Hastings Books & Records as an extension of his family’s magazine and book distribution business. Over the following decades, Hastings grew by acquiring regional music and video chains, and by the late 1980s, it had become one of the largest music store operators in the United States. Going public in 1999 marked a significant milestone, reflecting its established presence in the entertainment retail sector.

As of June 2016, Hastings operated 126 superstores across 19 states, with a strong footprint in small and mid-sized markets throughout the Midwest and South. The stores offered a diverse mix of products, creating a destination for shoppers seeking books, movies, music, comics, collectibles, and video games under one roof. This broad format and community-oriented approach made Hastings a familiar anchor in many shopping centers, especially in markets underserved by larger national chains.

In the five years leading up to 2016, Hastings worked to adapt to changes in consumer behavior, expanding its product mix to include more pop culture and collectibles in response to the rise of digital media. Despite these efforts, the company faced mounting challenges from online retailers and streaming services. In June 2016, Hastings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and was acquired by Draw Another Circle LLC. However, the business was unable to recover, and all 126 stores were closed by October 2016.

Hastings Entertainment’s story reflects the broader shift in retail as digital platforms transformed how people access media. For many communities, the brand is remembered for its eclectic selection and as a gathering place that brought consistent traffic and activity to retail centers. Since its closure, Hastings has not resumed operations, and its social media presence remains inactive. There are no current plans for store openings, franchise opportunities, or renewed expansion.