A gaming and entertainment retailer has announced it will be closing one of its Kent branches.
Game, inside The Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham, will be shutting in September.
The store has put up “closing down” signage and is running a sale – with 20 per cent off many full price items.
Following the closure, customers will have to travel to Maidstone for their nearest store.
The chain also has branches in Ashford, Canterbury, Folkestone, Sheppey, and Thanet.
The shop is known for selling gaming consoles and games, as well as toys and board games.
It was acquired by the Frasers Group in June 2019, which also owns other retail brands such as Sports Direct and House of Fraser.
Following the move many of Game’s brick and mortar stores were transferred into concessions within those larger retail spaces as part of a broader strategy to reduce costs and streamline operations.
Reacting to the news online, one person wrote “gutted to see this”, with another adding “so sorry to see such a great game store go, it’s been with us for 20 plus years”.
A spokesperson for The Pentagon said: “Game has been a mainstay of the UK high street for years, and its Chatham team has served local gamers with knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm for decades. We know they’ll be missed.
“The decision reflects a wider shift in the gaming industry. With nearly 90% of video games in the UK sold digitally in 2022, the way players access content has changed dramatically.
“Like many traditional retailers, Game has had to adapt to the growing dominance of online and digital platforms.
“While it’s always disappointing to see a popular brand close, we remain committed to the long-term growth of the centre.
“This winter, the new NHS Healthy Living Centre will open on the first floor, offering a major boost to health and well-being services in the town.
“We thank the team at Game for their contribution to the Pentagon and wish them all the very best for the future.”
Frasers Group have been approached for comment.
