Video game retailer Game is to shut 18 stores and all its 25 Debenhams concessions as it reviews its property portfolio in the face of “tough market conditions in 2010”.

The 683-store retailer, which has suffered declining sales in recent months in the softening games market, said it will shut 12 Game stores, six Gamestation stores and pull out of its partnership with Debenhams.

Across the 43 outlets, which are expected to close over the next six months, 247 redundancies will be made. Most of the closing stores are in locations where the retailer has more than one presence, with either two standalone stores, or a store and a concession close together.

The retailer will continue to trade in its three Hamleys and two Selfridges concessions, as well as in Bentalls and Fenwick department stores.  Game was forced to close its Borders UK concessions when the bookseller went bust last year.

Game said: “We are committed to evolving our business to make sure it operates as efficiently as possible while consistently delivering the high standards of service our customers demand.

“We regularly review our entire store portfolio, including our concessions, to maximise the opportunities to reach customers while also ensuring that the business is running as effectively as possible.”
 
It said that “as a result of this review process, and the tougher market conditions that we face in 2010” the outlets will close. It added it will help support customers and employees affected.