Retail has a place in growing digital market, says GameStop exec

GameStop International executive VP Mike says retails can get on board the digital revolution.

“Digital is complimentary to our business, and growing the industry. What’s good for the industry is good for retail,” Mauler said in a keynote address at the London Games Conference 2011, as reported by MCV.

"We’re very bullish about online."

Mauer said console gamers, a larger market slice then the industry has ever seen before, have become "hybrid customers", making both physical and digital purchases.

In this environment, the retail realm still has a lot to offer - not just on the physical side, but by acting as showcases and salesmen for quality digital content.

"We’re now in an environment where there are 100,000 SKUs per year. I’ve purchased scores of iPhone apps that I’ve deleted ten minutes later,” he explained.

“We have a closer relationship with the customers, we can cut through and speak to the market directly."

In the same address, Mauer predicted 75% growth in the digital market by 2014.