Windsor record stores strike balance between tradition and tech ahead of Record Store Day

Record store in Windsor, Ont., on Friday, April 17, 2026. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor)

From early-morning lineups to exclusive releases, Record Store Day continues to draw music lovers into independent shops — but how those customers shop is starting to evolve.

At Going Thru Vinyl, owner Jason Hofer says demand remains strong, with some customers lining up hours before doors open.

“Almost every single time I’ve ever had it, I’ve had people lined up from about 1 o’clock in the morning, which is crazy,” he said.

But inside the Ottawa Street shop, Hofer is taking a different approach to the traditional record store experience — building a custom database system designed to help customers quickly find what they’re looking for.

“I get customers coming in constantly. They know exactly what they want,” he said. “Do you have it? Boom.”

The system allows shoppers to compare multiple versions of the same album — from different countries, pressings and price points — in a matter of seconds.

Hofer says the goal is to improve both efficiency and quality in a business that can quickly become overwhelming.

“If you’re not organized… that job can become a burden,” he said, adding his approach is rooted in process and customer experience.

“I really believe that we are moving into a time where data is important… people that don’t adapt and don’t try to provide excellent service, I think will fall behind.”

Still, he says the appeal of vinyl remains deeply personal — a way for people to disconnect and create lasting memories.

“It’s nice to put away the phone… spend time with the family and live truly analog.”

Across the city at Dr. Disc Records, the focus remains firmly on the traditional record store experience.

Owner Liam O’Donnell says Record Store Day is the busiest day of the year — even surpassing the holiday season.

“Like it beats Christmas,” he said.

The annual event is known for limited-edition releases that are only available that day.

“Once they’re gone, they’re gone,” O’Donnell said.

But beyond the exclusives, he says what keeps people coming back is the atmosphere.

“You never know what you’re going to find. Just the people you meet. It’s a fun vibe.”

For many customers, the experience is as important as the music itself.

“Well it’s just the tactile feel… just the art. I mean, people love the art. Just owning a thing," O’Donnell told CTV News.

Regardless, both shops say Record Store Day continues to bring the community together — whether customers are searching through crates or quickly locating a rare pressing.

And while the ways people shop may be changing, the passion for vinyl remains the same.

Record Store Day takes place Saturday, April 18, with Going Thru Vinyl, Dr. Disc Records and Sunrise Records all taking part.