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.”