Gamestation reveals ambitious expansion plans

Ambitious retailer Gamestation has revealed to GamesIndustry.biz that it sees the potential of another 150 stores in the UK, as the specialist chain prepares to tackle High Street rivals over next-gen sales.

And the retailers' managing director Mike Logue has refused to rule out the possibility of an acquisition, reigniting speculation that the chain could be on the market for the right price.

Speaking at the opening of a new Microsoft-branded floor at the firms flagship store in Birmingham, Logue stated: "We've said we're going to open around 80 stores next year, but you know what? There's another 120, 150 shops available in the country that we believe we can make successful."

"Two years ago we opened 73 stores, so this new push will be the most we've ever done. You've got to set your sights high."

"With the stores that we've opened, particularly after the launch of the Xbox 360 and the performance of the DS, we're very excited. So there's opportunity for much more than 80 stores," he added.

Clearly reinvigorated after its collaboration with Microsoft and financial backing from parent company Blockbuster, Logue would not rule out the possibility of a takeover, a rumour that has followed the retailer for some time.

"The future of Gamestation is very, very bright," he said. "Our business plan for next year is to open a significant number of stores and Blockbuster is supporting that. Any company can be sold at any time, and I don't think you can say such a concrete thing that it won't happen."

"The team at Gamestation is totally focused on delivering its business plan, and I believe that we will execute it solidly. But you can never say never. No major company can," he added.

The full interview with Mike Logue will be published on GamesIndustry.biz this Thursday.