UK Retailer GAME Shutters Standalone Stores Amid Administration Move

UK retailer GAME has closed its remaining standalone stores amidst a move towards administration. The company, which has been a critical player in the gaming industry, now operates only through concession stores within Sports Direct and House of Fraser. This significant transformation caps off a series of struggles for the retailer.

GAME’s Shift to Concession Stores

As of early February 2026, GAME has fully transitioned to operating within larger retail environments. The managing director, Nick Arran, who dedicated nearly nine years to the company, has stepped down due to these changes.

At its peak, GAME boasted over 600 stores across the UK, a number bolstered by its acquisition of GameStation in 2007. However, the current landscape shows no standalone GAME locations remaining.

Current Operations and Future Prospects

While standalone stores have closed, GAME’s online platform will continue functioning as usual for the time being. The retailer is now primarily found in over 200 concession locations.

• GAME has entered administration following financial difficulties.
• A notice of intention to appoint administrators was filed, signaling a possible restructuring.
• RPC has been appointed to oversee a 10-day protection period from creditor action.

Historical Context

This isn’t GAME’s first encounter with financial turmoil. The company previously fell into administration in 2012, which led to the closure of 277 stores and the loss of over 2,100 jobs. Following that incident, private equity firm OpCapita acquired the company, selling it to Frasers Group in 2019.

Since then, the company has shifted its focus away from standalone stores and has ceased selling pre-owned games. Furthermore, its reward scheme has been discontinued, and the Basingstoke head office was fully closed in 2025.

A Future in Question

As GAME considers its next steps amid the current challenges, many wonder whether there will be a resurgence for the retailer. The transformation into concession stores raises questions about the long-term viability of GAME as a specialized retailer.

Continued developments in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of GAME. While the hope remains for a revitalization of the brand, skepticism looms regarding its survival in an increasingly competitive market.