The GameStop initial public offering last Wednesday has been gauged a success, with the stock holding on to most of its first day 12% gain in trading during the rest of the week.  The IPO raised around $325 million, of which $250 million will go to retire debt to former parent (and current majority stockholder) Barnes and Noble.  The remaining amount will be used for 'general corporate purposes,' including expansion.

 

GameStop operates around 1000 stores under the GameStop, Babbage's, Software, Etc., and FuncoLand names.  It has been enjoying a ferocious growth rate recently, as the largest specialty retailer in the rapidly growing video and PC game categories.  GameStop grew around 50% last year, vs. the category growth rate of around 36%.   With around $1.12 billion in sales in its last year, and roughly 1000 stores, well, you do the math but it's a nice per-store average.

 

Although it's not a central strategy mentioned in its S-1, GameStop retails a number of pop culture categories popular with its videogame customers.  And although the product mix varies in its various store formats or online store, Gamestop carries specialized specialized products in those categories: action figures (including Diamond exclusives and imports), CCGs, anime, and DVDs.