Electronics retailer Blockbuster will go into administration for the second time, according to a BBC report, and Xbox One and PS4 pre-orders will be affected. The chain's 264 stores will continue to trade while a new buyer is sought, according to present owner Gordon Brothers Europe, but there will be 32 redundancies at its UK headquarters.
In a statement, Gordon Brothers Europe commented that it had "striven to turn around the historically loss-making company by restructuring the business, investing significantly in strategic marketing activities and negotiating with the landlords of its retail outlets", adding that "the company also tried to develop a new digital platform but was unable to broker a licensing deal with Blockbuster UK's parent company in the US.
"Regrettably, the months since the acquisition have also coincided with a period of poor trading performance across both rental and retail sales."
Those of you who've ordered anything from Blockbuster might want to get in touch for a refund - fast. "We are sorry that you will be disappointed and that we can't fulfil any Xbox One or PS4 pre-orders at this time," reads an official Tweet, via Eurogamer.
"We appreciate and recognise the amount of messages about pre-orders. We're sorry some of you haven't received your calls yet. They're happening as we type."
Blockbuster first went into administration in January. There have been signs of recovery, under its new owner - the firm announced record Xbox One preorders in May - but alas, it seems we were all getting our hopes up. Best of luck to all those who've lost their jobs.
Update: Blockbuster has announced that it will be able to refund PS4 and Xbox One preorders. Find details below.
