GameStop’s ‘Trade Anything Day’: What Shoppers Can Really Expect on December 6
GameStop is gearing up for a unique event on December 6: “Trade Anything Day.” This initiative has generated a fair bit of buzz, with many wondering just how far the “anything” truly extends. While the prospect of trading in a toaster for a new game might sound appealing, it’s important for shoppers to go in with realistic expectations.
The Premise: Beyond Games and Consoles
Traditionally, GameStop’s trade-in program has focused on video games, consoles, and gaming accessories. “Trade Anything Day” aims to broaden this scope, inviting customers to bring in a wider array of electronics and potentially other items. The goal is to drive foot traffic, engage customers, and provide a fresh incentive to visit stores.
What “Anything” Likely Means in Practice
It’s highly improbable that GameStop will accept just anything you bring through the door. While the marketing might suggest boundless possibilities, the reality will almost certainly involve a more curated list of acceptable trade-ins. Here’s a breakdown of what shoppers can likely expect:
Expanded Electronics: This is the most probable area of expansion. Think beyond gaming. GameStop might accept:
Smartphones and Tablets: Newer models, especially, could fetch a decent trade-in value.
Laptops and Desktop Computers: Depending on specifications and condition.
Wearable Technology: Smartwatches, fitness trackers.
Drones: Smaller, recreational drones might be considered.
Other Gaming-Related Tech: VR headsets (beyond their typical offerings), high-end gaming peripherals not usually accepted.
Condition is Key: Just like with their regular trade-ins, the condition of your item will be paramount. Expect items to be thoroughly inspected for functionality, cosmetic damage, and completeness (i.e., do you have all the necessary cables and accessories?). Items that are broken, heavily damaged, or missing crucial components are unlikely to be accepted or will receive minimal value.
Verification and Value Assessment: GameStop employees will likely use a combination of internal databases and potentially third-party valuation tools to assess the trade-in value of non-standard items. This process might take longer than a typical game trade-in, so patience will be important.
In-Store Credit Only: It’s almost a certainty that trade-in values will be issued as in-store credit rather than cash. This encourages customers to spend their trade-in value on GameStop’s merchandise, aligning with the event’s goal of driving sales.
What You Probably Can’t Trade In:
To manage expectations, here’s a list of items that are highly unlikely to be accepted, despite the “anything” moniker:
Household Appliances: Toasters, blenders, vacuum cleaners – these fall outside GameStop’s operational scope and reselling capabilities.
Clothing or Personal Items: Shoes, apparel, jewelry.
Furniture: Tables, chairs, decorative items.
Perishable Goods or Food Items.
Books, CDs (non-gaming related), DVDs.
Broken or Obsolete Technology: While they might take some older tech, truly ancient or non-functional items will likely be rejected.
Anything Hazardous or Illicit.
Why is GameStop Doing This?
“Trade Anything Day” is a strategic move for GameStop, aimed at several key objectives:
Increase Foot Traffic: A unique event like this generates curiosity and encourages people who might not otherwise visit to step into a store.
Attract New Customers: By expanding trade-in options, GameStop can appeal to a broader demographic beyond its core gaming audience.
Boost Sales: The in-store credit model directly translates trade-ins into future purchases at GameStop.
Clear Inventory/Acquire New Inventory: Depending on what they accept, this could be a way to acquire new types of pre-owned electronics to resell.
Generate Buzz and Media Attention: The unusual nature of the event is designed to create conversation and free publicity.
Tips for Shoppers:
Call Ahead (But Don’t Expect Definitive Answers): You can try calling your local store, but employees might not have a complete list of accepted items until the day of the event.
Bring Items in Good Condition: Clean everything, ensure it’s functional, and gather all original accessories if possible.
Be Realistic: Understand that “anything” has practical limitations. Don’t bring in your old garden gnome hoping for a new PS5.
Be Patient: The trade-in process for unusual items might take longer.
Have a Backup Plan: If your item isn’t accepted, be prepared to take it back home.
The Verdict:
GameStop’s “Trade Anything Day” on December 6 is an intriguing event that could offer some real value for shoppers looking to offload unwanted electronics. However, it’s crucial to approach it with a clear understanding that the “anything” will likely be confined to a broader range of functional tech rather than truly limitless possibilities. Go in prepared, and you might just walk out with some fresh store credit for your old gadgets.
Here’s an image that captures the imaginative spirit of “Trade Anything Day,” showing a diverse array of unexpected items being considered for trade-in at a GameStop counter:
