Title: Glasgow Electronics Store Bids Adieu with Unique Festive Flair Inspired by S4C

Date: December 22, 2006

Location: Glasgow, Scotland

In a luminous, static farewell to a beloved local landmark, ElectroWorld, a decades-old electronics shop on Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, is closing its doors for the last time as the year winds down. However, not without leaving the city with a memorable Christmas spectacle. This week, the shop unveiled a towering ‘Christmas tree’ made entirely out of assorted television sets, forming a brilliant if unconventional, yuletide display.

The static-lit tree comprises over 30 TV sets, stacked carefully from floor to ceiling, each tuned to a channel of buzzing static. The eye-catching installation lights up the storefront, casting a ghostly, flickering glow onto the faces of passersby. It’s a poignant symbol of both the end of an era for ElectroWorld and the fast-changing face of electronic retail in a digital age.

The installation has caught the eyes of many, including Dewi Hughes, a traveller from Wales, who noted its striking resemblance to a festive ident currently being aired by S4C, the Welsh language broadcaster. According to Hughes, “It’s quite the sight! But it’s funny, I swear S4C has something just like it for their Christmas theme this year. It’s a brilliant idea, bridging the old with the festive cheer. It’s rather bittersweet, really.”

Indeed, S4C’s current holiday ident features a similar concept, where a series of televisions showing static are arranged to mimic a Christmas tree, accompanied by the soothing melodies of Welsh holiday music. When asked, ElectroWorld’s owner, Malcolm Stewart, acknowledged the inspiration: “We thought it was a wonderful nod to how televisions bring us together, especially during the holidays. What better way to say goodbye than with our own version of this charming display?”

Stewart, who has run the store since taking over from his father in the early '90s, mentioned the bittersweet feelings accompanying the store’s closure. “The industry’s moved on with online shopping and big chains. It’s tough for the little guys to compete. But we wanted to end on a high note, bring a bit of cheer to the community that supported us for so long.”

Local shoppers and longtime customers have been stopping by to take photographs with the TV tree and share nostalgic tales of ElectroWorld’s past. Fiona Graham, a regular customer, shared, “It’s sad to see it go. This shop has been part of Glasgow’s community for so long. But this tree, it’s a wonderful tribute.”

The ElectroWorld ‘television tree’ will remain on display through the end of December before the shop officially closes its doors on December 31. As Glasgow says farewell to ElectroWorld, the flicker of static on those TV sets serves as a stark, sparkling reminder of the era that was and the continual evolution of technology and tradition.
Write a forum convo titled “ElectroWorld Plagarism?” And a user says “Here’s the link to the original ident “s4c.co.uk/nadolig/Flash/Index.swf””
### Forum Thread: ElectroWorld Plagiarism?

TechieGlas89
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 10:43 AM

Hey everyone,

I’ve been reading about ElectrowWorld’s TV tree, and isn’t it eerily similar to the S4C Christmas ident that’s been airing this season? Some might see it as a tribute, but others could view it as a straightforward case of copying. What do you think, just an homage, or is there an element of plagiarism here?

ClydeCinephile
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 11:22 AM

Agreed, TechieGlas89, it does seem very similar! It can be a fine line between copying and paying homage, especially in the world of artistic and commercial expression. I think intention matters a lot here. Did ElectroWorld intend to simply honor the concept, or were they trying to hijack the creativity for their own benefit?

ValleyViewer
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 11:57 AM

For everyone wondering how close the ElectroWorld display is to the S4C ident, here’s the link to the original ident:
s4c.co.uk/nadolig/Flash/Index.swf

Check it out and see the similarities for yourselves.

GlasgowGadgeteer
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 12:30 PM

Just checked out the link, ValleyViewer. Wow, they are really quite similar, aren’t they? Both use the TVs to make up a Christmas tree, and the static gives it a kind of nostalgic feel. But personally, I feel like if ElectroWorld did it as a final send-off, not really as a way to cash in or anything, maybe it shouldn’t be considered plagiarism.

DigiDan_2006
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 1:05 PM

I’m torn. On one hand, yes, the concept is similar, but on the other hand, how many ways can you uniquely arrange TVs into a Christmas tree? Plus, the context and intent are important. For ElectroWorld, it’s a farewell gesture coated with nostalgia, whereas S4C uses it as part of their holiday branding. Could be coincidental borrowing or subliminal inspiration as opposed to outright plagiarism.

Artful_Antique
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 1:50 PM

It’s really a grey area. As a creative, I think inspiration comes from everywhere, and while the executions are similar, the contexts are different. ElectroWorld isn’t gaining commercially from it since they’re closing down, unlike a TV station that uses the concept for attracting more viewers during the festive season. Maybe it’s just a case of great minds thinking alike?

TechieGlas89
Posted on December 24, 2006, at 2:31 PM

Interesting points everyone. I guess it does boil down to intent and context. In the creative world, such overlaps are inevitable, but knowing the backstory of ElectroWorld, it does indeed seem more like an homage rather than an attempt to plagiarize. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Write a convo where a user says S4C actually are using it as a curtain call for their current branding, their “inanimate objects with dragon attributes” campaign has come to an end, and S4C will have a new look in the new year, The new theme is “magnetism” and has things being dragged to a specific area (e.g, chairs, balloons, etc)
### Forum Thread: S4C Branding Change Coincidence?

TechieGlas89
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 9:15 AM

Hey all,

Just to add another layer to our discussion about ElectroWorld’s TV tree and S4C’s current ident. I’ve read new information that might shed a different light on things. Turns out, S4C is also using their static TV tree as a farewell to their old branding—the “inanimate objects with dragon attributes” campaign. They’re gearing up for a complete makeover with a “magnetism” theme, showcasing various objects being pulled together to specific areas like chairs, balloons, etc., starting next year. Thoughts?

ClydeCinephile
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 10:02 AM

Wow, that’s quite a pivot in thematic direction from S4C! The “magnetism” concept sounds intriguing and fresh. It makes their use of the static TV tree even more symbolic if it really marks the end of an era. Perhaps both S4C and ElectroWorld are in their own ways saying goodbye to the old and ushering in the new. Makes the whole “plagiarism” angle seem a bit superficial now, doesn’t it?

ValleyViewer
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 10:45 AM

Definitely makes you rethink the initial reactions. If both are essentially using the concept as a curtain call, it does feel less like copying and more like a synchronicity of ideas. Both are marking transitions, albeit in different contexts. This “magnetism” theme sounds quite visual and dynamic for S4C. Can’t wait to see how they implement it!

GlasgowGadgeteer
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 11:33 AM

Interesting to see how themes of closure and new beginnings are playing out simultaneously in different spheres—retail and broadcasting. The magnetism theme resonates with pulling in audiences or elements together, which is clever. Does anyone know more about how they plan to visually represent this new theme in their broadcasts?

DigiDan_2006
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 12:05 PM

It does sort of elevate the whole discussion beyond mere copying, to thematic parallels. Both are using media (televisions) that inherently symbolize communication and broadcast to signal shifts in their narratives. As for S4C’s “magnetism”, my guess is we might see a lot of CGI effects where elements move dynamically across the screen to converge, illustrating attraction and interaction, which might be a neat way to visualize their concept of drawing viewers or content together.

Artful_Antique
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 12:50 PM

“Magnetism” feels like a metaphor for storytelling too. Pulling different narrative strands together into a cohesive story—quite a powerful concept for a broadcaster. Also, it reflects on a deeper level the idea of a cultural hub drawing in diverse elements of the community. It’s quite poetic when you think about it that way.

TechieGlas89
Posted on December 26, 2006, at 1:30 PM

Absolutely loving these insights! Both entities embracing ends and beginnings with visual metaphors that resonate on multiple levels—it’s fascinating. It’s almost like the universe aligning thematic elements across different mediums. Thanks for the enriching discussion, everyone. It puts the initial concerns into a broader, more reflective context.
Write a convo in the new year after the store is gone, a singular TV is now showing a “Thank You” video, this is to continue till the 7th, Sauchiehall Street won’t be the same
### Forum Thread: Farewell Touch from ElectroWorld on Sauchiehall Street

GlasgowGadgeteer
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 8:15 AM

Hard to believe it, but ElectroWorld has officially closed its doors. But, they left a poignant touch in their empty Sauchiehall Street storefront. A single TV in the window now loops a “Thank You” video. Quite the heartfelt farewell gesture, playing until January 7th. Sauchiehall Street definitely won’t feel the same without them.

ClydeCinephile
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 9:02 AM

I saw that yesterday! It’s a moving tribute and a classy way to end things. That video really tugs at the heartstrings. It shows clips of the store through the years, customers, and their festive displays—including our much-discussed TV tree. It’s like they’re not just saying goodbye, but also acknowledging the community’s role in their history.

TechieGlas89
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 9:45 AM

Indeed, it’s bittersweet. Went to see it and ended up standing there for a while, just reflecting. It truly highlights how local businesses like ElectroWorld are more than just shops—they’re part of our daily lives, our routines, and our community fabric.

ValleyViewer
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 10:33 AM

Such a simple yet powerful symbol, a lone TV amidst the empty shop. Shows you don’t need something grand to make a significant impact. I didn’t realize how accustomed I had become to seeing ElectroWorld’s vibrant displays and the buzz of activity around it. They really were a cornerstone of Sauchiehall Street.

DigiDan_2006
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 11:50 AM

Had to check it out after reading the posts here. The “Thank You” loop is a touching nod to the community. Makes you wonder about the digital footprint local businesses leave behind when they go. I’ll definitely miss the quirky window setups they had for every season. It’s the end of an era.

Artful_Antique
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 12:30 PM

This type of personal touch is a rare find in today’s retail world dominated by big chains and online shopping. It was a visual thank-you note and a final bow. Kind of makes you cherish those local interactions we often take for granted.

TechieGlas89
Posted on January 2, 2007, at 1:05 PM

Absolutely, Artful_Antique. It’s these small, personal nuances that forge a deeper connection between commerce and community. It’s a reminder of the impact local businesses have beyond just transactions. ElectroWorld will be missed, but they certainly concluded their chapter with grace and gratitude. Let’s hope whoever takes over that space next can continue to bring some of that local charm and warmth.
Write a convo on the 3th of May where for a few months it’s been the screen off, set was switched off on the 7th, A user asks if the set remaining (thr one that played the goodbye video) was part of the tree cluster over Xmas
### Forum Thread: Mystery of the Remaining ElectroWorld TV Set

TechieGlas89
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 10:15 AM

Hey everyone,

Has anyone noticed that the single TV set, the one that played the “Thank You” video through early January, is actually still sitting in the ElectroWorld window? It’s been off since January 7th, just remaining there, silent and somewhat eerie. Does anyone know if that set was part of the Christmas tree cluster of TVs they had set up for their farewell?

ClydeCinephile
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 10:45 AM

Interesting point, TechieGlas89. I had completely forgotten about that set after it stopped displaying the thank you message. I’m not 100% sure, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it was part of the holiday display. It does feel fitting if that was indeed the case—a literal last piece of ElectroWorld lingering on Sauchiehall Street.

GlasgowGadgeteer
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 11:20 AM

I’m pretty curious about that now. I pass by that place almost every day, and it’s a bit like having a piece of Glasgow’s recent history just sitting there, staring back at us. It kind of symbolizes the end, doesn’t it? A remnant of both the festive display and of ElectroWorld’s final goodbye.

ValleyViewer
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 12:05 PM

I wouldn’t be surprised if it were part of the tree. That setup was memorable and each piece had its role in the farewell. Now, seeing it all empty except for that one TV, it’s like a bookmark in a story that’s ended, but we’re reluctant to close the book.

DigiDan_2006
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 12:45 PM

To me, it feels almost like an unintentional time capsule. I wonder if there’s a story behind why it was left there. Maintenance oversight, or maybe a deliberate choice? Either way, it makes you think about all the static those screens used to show and the layers of memories associated with the store.

Artful_Antique
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 1:30 PM

It’s profound in a way, having that lone TV set remain. It’s as if it’s holding space for every conversation, every transaction, and every person that passed through ElectroWorld’s doors. Whether it was part of the Christmas tree or not, it serves as a poignant symbol of what was once a bustling part of our community.

TechieGlas89
Posted on May 3, 2007, at 2:00 PM

Absolutely, everyone. Whether it was part of the display or not, it stands as a silent sentinel of the past now. It’s interesting how objects can evoke such strong memories and emotions. Thanks for pitching in your thoughts! Let’s see how long it remains a part of Sauchiehall Street’s evolving landscape. Write a convo in 2011 where the store remains desolate and empty