GameStop will pilot new in-store concepts to stay afloat

[Shawn Knight]

Bottom line: GameStop has a lot riding on the new concept, which it says it will pilot in a “select [undisclosed] market” at an unspecified time. The company’s stock has been sliding south for roughly half a decade and with a value of just under $5 per share, there isn’t much leeway left.

GameStop on Monday announced a strategic partnership with global design firm R/GA in a bid to reaffirm its place in video game culture.

GameStop said it is piloting streamlined physical store concepts that’ll present ways for gamers to try new titles before buying them. Stores will also have a unique layout and purpose that appeal to gamers such as areas for competitive homegrown e-Leagues and others that specialize in retro hardware and software. The company said it wants to help people search for experiences in gaming beyond the console.

ThinkGeek earlier this year shut down its online presence, consolidating with its parent company to bring its products to local GameStop stores.

According to research led by GameStop and R/GA, video games are no longer just a form of entertainment but rather, a “fundamental part of the fabric of a modern customer’s life.” While it may be true that gaming has never been as big as it is today, the industry has also never had to deal with the struggles that modern retailers face.

Much like streaming did to the video store rental industry, digital downloads have reshaped the traditional video game store landscape. People simply aren’t buying physical games like they once did, instead electing for the convenience afforded by over-the-Internet downloads.

Masthead credit: GameStop store in Rome, Italy by Emilio100

Permalink to story.

https://www.techspot.com/news/80957-gamestop-pilot-new-store-concepts-stay-afloat.html

 

[cliffordcooley]

Would this not be the equivalent to changing sinkers?

 

[Nocturne]

Use MTG and Tabletop gaming it's really not exploited as it could be, partner with Wotc for a national supply/distro chain that can provide areas for gameplay as well as product distribution, as well as create partnered gaming lines dedicated to the respective areas ranging from affordable entry level to moderate to expensive premium products.

 

[Axiarus]

They need to add LAN lounges like other gaming stores have.

 

[Uncle Al]

Regretfully they simply haven't been able to compete with the likes of STEAM and until they can they will continue to slide into oblivion .... a loss for everyone.

 

[kira setsu]

First of all they dont need a store on every block, its insane how many gamestops there are around me. also quit badgering me about new games when im already buying the newest thing on its release day, and finally stop treating customers like thieves, I go to one store that has a recording about its surveillance system blaring nonstop, I'm not gonna steal your empty game cases!

 

[IggyCanFly]

They should focus on competitive pricing, treating employees and customers with respect and not incentivising abuse and misdoings by managers