CDs return to Christmas lists as gen Z enjoys a 'retro renaissance'

Forget the vinyl revival.

- Zoe Wood

CD players and CDs are back on Christmas lists this year amid a wave of 90s nostalgia and coveted “deluxe” releases from big acts such as Taylor Swift and Pink Floyd.Demand for compact discs peaked in the mid-00s and many households ditched their systems and libraries as digital music took off. But the distinctive whirr is returning to bedrooms around the country, with retailers and marketplaces experiencing an uptick in appetite for vintage tech and music to play on it.

John Lewis has upped its range of CD players to meet resurgent demand and says sales are up 74% in the past year. “We’re seeing something of a retro renaissance,” said Heather Andrews, one of its electricals buyers.

The format’s cause is being helped by the return of classic 90s acts like Oasis and Pulp - who peaked in the CD era - and filled stadiums this summer.

Although the lion’s share of music sales are through streaming, experts report a burgeoning demand for physical copies, complete with artwork and liner notes to muse over. Fans also know buying a physical copy of an album is a more effective way to financially support artists they like.