GAME Group may be centralising its key management and cutting back on overhead, but the good news for the market is that it remains committed to opening more stores this year.

Around 20 sites have been earmarked for launch either as GAME or Gamestation. Some stores may close this year, as per normal housekeeping across the  portfolio, but a significant net increase is still expected.

Speaking exclusively to MCV, chief executive Lisa Morgan said: “Everything we are doing is about best positioning for the future. It makes sense to pull together head office teams, but it also makes sense to seize the right opportunities for new store openings.

“We’re absolutely committed to both our brands. The 20 new stores opening this year will be GAME or Gamestation depending on location.”

Suppliers will be delighted to welcome new stores, given the recent collapse of Woolworths and decline of Zavvi.

Meanwhile, GAME has begun its consultation process for 80 staff after opting to move several head office teams from York to Basingstoke.

Gamestation MD Martyn Gibbs will move south, taking the new role of customer and brand director. Basingstoke-based GAME MD Tricia Brennan, meanwhile, becomes commercial and supply chain director.

Both execs will report directly to COO Terry Scicluna.

Repair, warehouse and call centre teams will stay in York.