EB Games Proposes Full New Zealand Exit
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Video game retailer EB Games has announced a proposal to shutter its entire New Zealand operation, potentially ending the brand's physical presence in the country. In a letter sent to staff on Tuesday, Managing Director Shane Stockwell revealed that the company is considering the closure of all 38 remaining New Zealand stores alongside its national distribution center.
The proposal follows significant financial difficulties for the local arm of the business, which is owned by global giant GameStop. Stockwell described the New Zealand division as no longer commercially viable, citing a multi-million dollar loss during the 2024 fiscal year. He noted that the retail market remains sluggish and the company lacks confidence that local performance will see a recovery in the near future.
While the proposal would see all New Zealand roles disestablished, the company has indicated that there may be opportunities for staff to relocate and take up positions within EB Games' Australian operations, which currently maintains over 100 stores.
The company emphasised that the proposal is not yet final. A consultation process is currently underway to allow affected team members to provide feedback on the plan. Staff have been asked to submit their responses by January 12 before a final decision is reached regarding the future of the brand in New Zealand.
The news follows a period of contraction for the retailer, which had already proposed cutting its local administrative staff early last year in an effort to turn the business around.While the New Zealand stores face closure, the company’s Australian branch is expected to continue operations.