The claim by departing HMV chief executive Simon Fox that his legacy is the survival of the entertainment giant should be taken at face value.

The claim by departing HMV chief executive Simon Fox that his legacy is the survival of the entertainment giant should be taken at face value. Critics can point to a much weakened share price and a lack of direction around digital, but the challenge faced by the entertainment market has left HMV as the last man standing on the high street.

For his shrewd handling of suppliers and banks during HMV’s crisis years Fox deserves praise. But there is plenty for new boss Trevor Moore still to do. Debt may be under control, but it has come at the expense of its live music business. Meanwhile, the forces of change will continue to hack away at HMV’s foundations unless the former Jessops boss can bring all his turnaround expertise to bear.

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