GameStop Lays Off 50 Managers in Recent "Reboot"

A new chapter has developed in the ongoing saga known as "GameStop is Doing Poorly." There are confirmed reports that the video gaming retail outlet has laid off over 50 "field leaders" earlier this week.

In late July, there were rumors of mass layoffs at various GameStop locations. This was confirmed on Twitter after Spawn Wave Media asked their following for any evidence. User MVG responded with a photo of a GameStop location computer screen with a memo detailing the event.

According to the memo, this is part of an ongoing GameStop Reboot Transformation Initiative. They are looking to reduce daily costs in order to fund future investments. They're doing this by "streamlining" the responsibilities of their managerial roles and removing redundant roles. The memo states that "there are more than 50 field leaders that will be impacted and leaving the GameStop team."

It's worded as if they are improving the company, but history implies otherwise. The organization shut down 225 stores worldwide in 2017 and had 2 different CEOs resign in 2018. This looks less like signs of growth and the convulsions of a bleeding business.

Most gaming folks can tell you that physical retail stores are becoming less and less popular in the last few years. Digital game purchases are becoming more commonplace and online stores are offering a wider selection of products without having to leave one's home. Much like how GameStop took down local game stores, the internet is taking down GameStop.