GameStop global holiday sales hit $3.15 billion, hardware sales up 99.8% thanks to next-gen

GameStop has reported sales results for the nine-week holiday period ended January 4, 2014 noting that global sales for the period hit $3.15 billion, a 9.3% increase year-over-year.

Total store sales also increased 10.2% thanks to next-gen consoles releases, providing the firm's hardware sector with a 99.8% uptick in sales.

“I am pleased to report that the extensive planning by our entire team over the past year to prepare for the new console launches paid off," said GameStop CEO Paul Raines in a prepared statement. "Our outstanding execution during the holidays resulted in GameStop securing the number one market share position in the U.S. and in most of the countries in which we operate today.

"GameStop also had the highest software and accessory attach ratio of any retailer for both new consoles. Building off this momentum, we are in an excellent position to drive the global adoption of the next generation of new video game products in 2014.”

Due to the transition of next-gen consoles, greater than expected declines in both Xbox 360 and PS3 software sales were reported, resulting in a 22.5% decline in the new software category.

Pre-owned sales increased 7.0%, while the "other" category also noted a sales increase of 4.8%. Within this category, digital receipts were $207.3 million, an increase of 14.9%, and mobile revenues increased 23.8% to $94.8 million.

GameStop mobile, web-in-store, pick-up at store, and e-commerce also noted a 57% increase compared to the 2012 holiday period.

Sales through GameStop’s mobile site increased 47%, web-in-store and pick-up at store sales combined increased over 120% and sales through the chain's official website increased 37%.