Gem seals Ztorm buyout

Gem has confirmed its entry into the digital space with the acquisition of Ztorm.

MCV reported that the Group had plans to buy the Swedish digital distributor earlier this month.

Now Gem has told MCV the acquisition has been arranged, meaning the retail services provider will soon be able to sell downloadable products such as games, films and music.

Ztorm handles white label download services for clients such as EA, Activision, Ubisoft, Rockstar, Bethesda, Square Enix, THQ, Sega, Disney, Namco Bandai, 2K Games and NCsoft. It offers around 1,500 PC titles.

"I am delighted to welcome Ztorm to the Gem Group," said Gem’s group strategic development director Alex Croft.

"The business is exceptionally well placed to develop and grow within an increasingly significant area of the market. As Gem continues to expand the range of retail and partner services on offer – the solutions that Ztorm provide will further enhance our partner offering and the value that we are able to add."

Ztorm CEO Anders Emblad added: "We are thrilled to have found a new owner in the Gem Group.

"Joining forces with the Gem Group will enable synergies benefiting our customers and partners in the coming months and years. Our business relationships will continuously grow and we look forward to extending our market and product offerings as we move ahead."