GAME/Gamestation deal cleared but only just

In its final report published today, the Competition Commission has concluded that GAME’s 74 million acquisition of Gamestation may not be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in the markets for the supply of gaming software, consoles and related accessories in the UK.”

But the report reveals that it was a close call – it states that: Two members of the Group disagreed with the conclusion in relation to the trade-in and sale of pre-owned gaming software.”

As this meant a split 2:2 verdict, the Chairman has exercised her casting vote in favour of a final clearance.”