GameStop is closing all stores in Germany by January 2025, affecting 500 employees. The exit follows closures in Ireland and Switzerland. Online pre-orders for 2025 titles remain uncertain. Shifting gamer habits drive GameStop's struggles.
GameStop will leave Germany by January 31, 2025, closing around 70 remaining stores. Once operating 200 locations in Germany, GameStop's decline in the country highlights its struggles in Europe. This move follows its 2023 exit from Ireland, where all stores and online operations ceased.
The shutdown will affect 500 employees in Germany, raising concerns for the workforce during the holiday season. GameStop’s downsizing reflects broader challenges in adapting to gaming’s digital shift, where physical game sales have significantly declined.
Germany's closure leaves GameStop with only French stores in the EU. Earlier, Swiss and Italian outlets were sold to third parties. GameStop’s shrinking footprint in Europe comes as gamers increasingly choose digital purchases over physical stores.
GameStop has struggled with the rise of online game distribution and declining foot traffic. Despite efforts to expand into collectibles and retro gaming, the company faces stiff competition from online platforms. The Germany exit may signal further consolidations ahead.
Will GameStop survive the shift to digital?
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