Retailers bullish despite downturn

GAMES RETAIL has never been more challenging, but store managers are confident about their business as the New Year approaches.

85 per cent of retailers say they are positive about the health of their business moving into 2011.

This is despite market shrinkage in 2010, several independent retailers closing their doors, increased pre-owned competition from supermarkets and the imminent VAT increase.

The findings were made in MCV’s 2010 Retail Survey, which quizzed 98 prominent retailers including High Street chains, indies, supermarkets and online retailers.

A number of store managers said they were confident due to the large number of big-name game releases in 2011 including 3DS, Gears of War 3, Batman: Arkham City, Killzone 3 and The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.

Just six per cent of retailers said they aren’t confident moving into 2011, while nine per cent told MCV they are unsure of the future.

I’m confident in our business but I’m not confident in the state of the market,” said one leading retail exec.