Game Digital UK like-for-likes down 0.3% during festive trading period
Game Digital saw its UK like-like sales edge down 0.3% in the seven weeks to 5 January although sales in Spain were up 4.8% in the period.
The results meant that group like-for-like sales climbed by 2% during the seven week period and by 1% in the first 23 weeks of Game’s financial year. Like-for-like sales in the UK were up 1.1% in the 23 weeks.
The company said its group trading margin rate improved year-on-year in the seven weeks due to a strong performance in the exclusive products category and an increased mix of higher margin products.
Martyn Gibbs, Game Digital chief executive, said: “Despite a challenging retail climate, the group traded solidly over the Christmas period, with encouraging like-for-like sales in both territories. The group successfully delivered growth from exclusives, higher margin categories and our specialist customer offer over the Black Friday event, which all contributed to a pleasing margin outcome and helped to offset the continued, managed decline of preowned.”
Game said enhancements made to its multichannel offer, online customer journey and delivery options helped to improve its online conversion profitability and market share.
Two new Belong gaming arenas were opened in the 23 week period and the company is currently seeking new and larger locations for a future rollout.
