Blockbuster: Pre-owned leads the way

Blockbuster Entertainment has dramatically increased its presence in the video game space this year – and now the outlet has targeted the pre-owned market as it looks to compete with the specialists.

The rental chain told MCV recently that its new Total Entertainment store concepts will see it step away from DVDs, and focus more on video games, gadgets and Blu-Ray. Blockbuster has already been promoting a host of in-store pre-owned offers, including new releases for 14.99 when customers trade-in a selected game.

The retailer also promises to buy and sell pre-owned software for the lowest price on the High Street, and offers a six-month pre-owned guarantee.

And store manager Richard George has told MCV that second-hand games are a big part of these new plans.

The pre-owned market will lead the way for us,” he said. It means we can offer better value than the supermarkets or independents, and customers are able to get rid of games they no longer want for a guaranteed best price on the High Street.

Pre-owned games is the most important part of the store,” continued George.

It is crucial that we make sure that people know we give the best trade-in price and
that our pre-owned stock is also cheaper than anywhere else.

Basically, we are set to give the best value to our customers whilst making maximum margin.”