Video game retailer EB Games New Zealand launched a nationwide liquidation sale today. The company offers a 50% discount on all remaining stock across the country.
This event marks the final phase of the company’s presence in the New Zealand market. Management confirmed the closure of all 38 physical storefronts following a period of financial evaluation.
Final Operational Dates for Retail Outlets
All EB Games stores in New Zealand will cease operations on 31 January 2026. The New Zealand Distribution Centre will continue to function until 28 February 2026.
Managing Director Shane Stockwell detailed these timelines in a formal communication to the workforce. This schedule ensures the orderly wind-down of the retail network over the coming weeks.
EB Games New Zealand’s official statement
Financial Performance Triggers Market Exit
The company reported a multi-million dollar loss during the 2024 fiscal year. Stockwell described the New Zealand business as no longer commercially viable in recent internal documents.
Retail conditions in the region remained difficult for several consecutive periods. The company cited a lack of confidence in future performance as a primary factor for this decision.
Efforts to Sustain Local Operations
Management attempted to transform stores and increase profits over the last three years. The company also sought potential buyers for the New Zealand business during this time.
External parties approached EB Games after the initial announcement of the potential closure. These discussions did not yield any sustainable solutions for the local operations.
History of the Gaming Brand in New Zealand
- Electronics Boutique launched its first New Zealand store in 2000.
- The brand adopted the EB Games name globally in 2002.
- GameStop acquired the business for $1.44 billion in 2005.
- The company operated 38 stores across New Zealand at its peak.
EB Games maintained a retail presence in New Zealand for over 25 years. The brand became a central hub for gaming communities and midnight product releases during this period.
Impact on the Workforce and Employment
The closure affects all roles within the EB Games New Zealand division. The company eliminated New Zealand administrative staff at the start of last year to reduce costs.
Management stated that opportunities for relocation to Australian operations might exist for some employees. The firm completed a consultation process with team members before finalising the exit plan.
Future Digital Transition for Consumers
New Zealand customers will gain access to the Australian website by the end of March 2026. This move transitions the brand to a purely digital model for the New Zealand market.
The company plans to maintain its 336 stores across Australia without changes. New Zealand residents can continue to interact with the brand through these online channels.
Consumer Guidelines for Store Credit and Gift Cards
EB Games advised customers to use existing gift cards and store credits before the January deadline. The retailer stopped the sale of new gift cards earlier this month.
Shoppers can still obtain refunds for preorder deposits at their local branches. The company recommends that customers collect all reserved items before the final day of trade.
Market Shift from Physical to Digital Media
The rise of digital distribution platforms altered the retail landscape for physical video games. Industry data shows a consistent decline in physical software sales over the last decade.
Many consumers now prefer digital downloads over physical discs or cartridges. This shift pressured traditional brick-and-mortar retailers to adapt their business models or exit the market.
Warehouse Operations and Logistics
The New Zealand Distribution Centre will handle the final movement of inventory until late February. Staff at this facility will oversee the return or disposal of unsold merchandise.
Logistics teams will coordinate the removal of store fixtures after the retail locations close. The company intends to vacate all leased premises according to the established timeline.
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Public Reaction to the Closure
Customers shared memories of the retail chain on social media platforms this week. Many individuals noted the role of the stores in their youth and gaming hobbies.
Observers mentioned the loss of physical spaces for gaming communities to gather. Retail analysts viewed the closure as a sign of broader changes in the global entertainment market.
Strategic Pivot to Pop Culture Merchandise
The company previously attempted to offset declining game sales with pop culture products. Stores increased their inventory of collectibles and apparel to attract different consumer segments.
These initiatives included a focus on retro gaming and trade-in programs for older hardware. Despite these efforts, the diversification did not provide enough revenue to sustain the New Zealand branch.
Final Sales Statistics and Inventory Levels
Bargain hunters formed long queues at various locations, including the Whangārei branch today. Some shoppers waited for over an hour to enter the stores and browse the inventory.
The 50% discount applies to hardware, software, and all accessories in stock. Store managers expect inventory levels to drop rapidly during the first week of the liquidation.
Comparison with Australian Operations
The Australian division of EB Games continues to operate 336 stores across the Tasman. This branch remains profitable and forms a core part of the parent company’s regional strategy.
Differences in market size and consumer density contributed to the divergent outcomes for the two regions. The parent company, GameStop, maintains its headquarters in Texas and oversees both divisions.
Closing Remarks from Management
Shane Stockwell expressed sadness regarding the necessity of the New Zealand market exit. He acknowledged the dedication of the staff who served the company over two decades.
“Twenty-five years is a lifetime, a lifetime of memories and touching so many lives,” Stockwell stated. He emphasised the special way that gaming connects communities through shared experiences.
