The Home Shopping Network (HSN) was a household name, with memories stretching back to the 1980s when the network began selling everything from home gadgets to jewelry on TV. What’s even more significant is that HSN was based in St. Petersburg, Florida, for almost half a century. But now, after 47 years of being a part of Florida’s business landscape, the Home Shopping Network is preparing to leave.
The Rise of HSN in Florida
HSN’s journey in Florida began in 1977, when it started as a small operation selling can openers on a Clearwater radio station. Its humble beginnings paved the way for a major expansion in the 1980s. By 1981, HSN made its transition to TV broadcasts in the Tampa Bay area, and by 1985, it was available nationwide. Despite growing to become a popular shopping destination across the U.S., the company remained rooted in the Sunshine State, with its headquarters in St. Petersburg.
In the years that followed, HSN not only became a staple of late-night TV but also a key employer in Florida. At its peak, it earned accolades from Forbes as one of the best employers in the country, especially for women. It was a proud part of Florida’s business community, contributing to the local economy and offering jobs to thousands of residents. There are still a few HSN Outlet stores in Florida, serving as reminders of its long-lasting presence.
Challenges and Changes
However, the winds of change are now blowing for the iconic brand. In recent years, HSN has faced a series of challenges, including significant layoffs and revenue declines. In 2023, Qurate Retail Group, HSN’s parent company, announced that it would lay off 400 employees due to a 14% drop in revenue. The company’s struggles reflect broader trends in the retail and media landscape, as more consumers turn to online shopping, and the popularity of TV-based shopping channels has waned.
These changes were the beginning of a larger transformation for HSN, ultimately leading to the decision to leave Florida.
The Big Move: St. Petersburg to Pennsylvania
In January 2025, HSN made its announcement official: the company would be leaving its massive St. Petersburg campus and relocating its headquarters to West Chester, Pennsylvania. The St. Petersburg facility, which spans a huge 369,000 square feet, has been the heart of HSN’s operations for decades. It’s located at 2501 118th Avenue North, in a highly desirable area of the city.
While the future of the St. Petersburg campus remains unclear—whether it will be sold or repurposed—is yet to be seen, what’s certain is that this marks the end of an era for both the company and the local community. In a statement, Stacy Bowe, president of HSN, shared the company’s gratitude towards Florida and the St. Petersburg community:
“We have the deepest appreciation to the state of Florida and the St. Petersburg community for their support and dedication over HSN’s 47-year history. We look forward to continuing to delight our customers as we make this transition to our new home.”
What Does This Mean for Florida?
The move of HSN’s headquarters out of Florida will no doubt have ripple effects in the local community. While the company still has a presence in the form of retail outlets, the loss of its headquarters will be a blow to the local economy, which has relied on HSN as an employer for many years.
St. Petersburg, which once enjoyed the reputation of being home to a major national company, will now face the challenge of filling the void left by HSN’s departure. Local job markets may also be affected, as hundreds of employees are expected to either relocate to Pennsylvania or seek new opportunities.
Additionally, the impact on Florida’s image as a business hub could be seen in the long term. HSN’s decision to move is a clear sign of the changing dynamics in the retail industry, as businesses continue to shift operations to regions where they believe they can cut costs or improve profitability.
What’s Next for HSN?
As HSN transitions to Pennsylvania, many questions remain. Will the company’s new location allow it to revive its fortunes, or will it continue to struggle with the same challenges that have led to this major move? The next few years will likely determine whether HSN can regain its former glory or if it will become just another name in the history of TV-based shopping channels.
For Florida, HSN’s exit is a bittersweet moment, as it marks the end of a long chapter in the state’s business history. Still, many Floridians will continue to remember the network’s role in shaping the retail landscape and the memories it created over nearly five decades
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