Editing News/GameStop to Shut Down Stores in USA

{{News
|seo_title=GameStop to Shut Down Stores in USA
|seo_keywords=GameStop
|seo_description=Video game retailer GameStop announced major store closures across the United States.
|image=Gmstop.jpg
|tags=GameStop
|date=2026-01-12T15:58:49.000Z
|sources={{NewsSource
|source=Games Industry
|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/report-gamestop-closing-hundreds-of-stores-in-the-united-states
|article=News/GameStop to Shut Down Stores in USA
}}
|author=Andura
|category=More
|content=Video game retailer GameStop announced major store closures across the United States. Social media posts, employee reports, and tracking blogs have highlighted hundreds of locations shutting their doors, with one unofficial tally showing around 390 confirmed closures and another 10 still under verification as of mid-January. The closures were announced with the company's stated plans in its most recent SEC filings. In its annual report for the fiscal year ending February 2025, GameStop disclosed that it had already closed 590 stores in the US during fiscal 2024. 

The filing stated that the company anticipates "closing a significant number of additional stores in fiscal 2025," which runs through January 31, 2026. Reports suggest this latest round could push the total reductions well into the hundreds for the current period, potentially affecting 20-30% of its remaining US footprint when combined with prior cuts.GameStop previously operated about 2,325 stores in the United States at the start of 2025. 

The closures stem from a "store portfolio optimization review" aimed at addressing underperforming locations amid shifting consumer habits. Physical game sales have declined sharply as digital downloads, streaming services, and online retailers dominate the market. Many newer consoles favor digital distribution, reducing the need for brick-and-mortar disc sales and trade-ins that once defined GameStop's business.

The impact isn't limited to the US. [[Companies/GameStop|GameStop]] has been scaling back internationally for years, exiting operations entirely in countries like Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. It has sold off its Italian subsidiary and is seeking buyers for its businesses in France and Canada.Closer to home for some regions, GameStop-owned EB Games in New Zealand faces a similar fate. Reports indicate the company has proposed closing all 38 remaining EB Games stores in the country, along with its New Zealand distribution center. 

Managing Director Shane Stockwell reportedly informed staff via email that the proposal is not final and follows a consultation process. "This proposal includes the closure of all remaining EB Games New Zealand stores and the New Zealand Distribution Centre," the communication stated. "If the proposal were to proceed, it would mean that all roles within EB Games New Zealand would be disestablished."The New Zealand arm has reportedly posted significant losses, making it unsustainable in the current market. Staff have until mid-January to provide feedback, and some may have relocation options to EB Games operations in Australia, where the chain remains stronger.

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}}