Gaw, to invest, or not?
Games Workshop Group PLC, commonly known as Games Workshop or Gaw Share Price, is a British company that specializes in miniature wargames and associated products. The company was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Nottingham, England. Games Workshop is best known for its flagship tabletop wargame Warhammer 40,000, as well as Warhammer Age of Sigmar.
The company designs, manufactures, and sells a wide range of miniatures, rulebooks, and accessories for its various gaming systems. Games Workshop operates its own chain of retail stores under the name “Warhammer,” where customers can purchase its products and participate in gaming events. The company also has an extensive online presence, offering its products through its website and digital platforms.
Games Workshop has a strong community of dedicated hobbyists and gamers who enjoy assembling, painting, and playing with the miniatures. The company encourages creativity and customization, allowing players to create unique armies and engage in strategic battles on the tabletop.
In addition to its core games, Games Workshop has expanded its intellectual property to include novels, video games, and other merchandise. The Warhammer universe has become a rich and expansive setting, attracting a passionate fanbase worldwide.
As a publicly traded company, Games Workshop Group PLC is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “GAW.” It has experienced significant growth and financial success in recent years, thanks to the popularity of its games and the ongoing support of its community.
Gaw’s share price began at an already high price. It started at 2,975GBX in June 2018. However, this is not its highest price. In July of 2021, its price soared at 11,940GBX, making it its highest price up to present. This is probably because of the rise of the popularity of games in the current society. Just like other companies, GAW also had its share of downs. In November 2018, GAW had its lowest price at 2,880GBX.
During the pandemic, Gaw Share Price also plummeted down to 3,970GBX in March of 2020 from a the high 7,115GBX just a month before. This means, no matter how sought after a certain company is, or no matter how popular their product is, there will always be several factors affecting its rise and fall.
Who is GAW or Games Workshop?
Games Workshop Group PLC has an interesting and somewhat unconventional origin story. It was founded in 1975 by three friends: Ian Livingstone, Steve Jackson, and John Peake. The company initially focused on importing and selling American role-playing games and distributing them in the United Kingdom.
The trio started their business in London, operating out of a flat in Shepherd’s Bush. They began by importing Dungeons & Dragons rulebooks and other games from the United States, capitalizing on the growing interest in tabletop gaming. They sold these products through mail order and at various conventions.
As they gained experience in the industry, Livingstone, Jackson, and Peake decided to expand their business by creating their own game. They developed a fantasy board game called “Warhammer” in 1983, which featured armies of miniature figurines battling on a tabletop battlefield. The game was a success and laid the foundation for Games Workshop’s future endeavors.
Building on the success of Warhammer, Games Workshop continued to develop and refine its miniature wargaming systems. In 1987, the company released Warhammer 40,000, a futuristic variant of the original game set in a dystopian science fiction universe. This game became even more popular than its predecessor and has since become one of Games Workshop’s flagship products.
Over the years, Games Workshop has expanded its range of games and miniatures, creating new settings such as Warhammer Age of Sigmar, Necromunda, and Blood Bowl. The company has also acquired and developed other intellectual properties, including the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit licenses.
Today, Games Workshop is a global leader in the hobby gaming industry, with a devoted following and a strong presence in both physical retail stores and online platforms. Its success can be attributed to its dedication to high-quality miniatures, engaging gameplay, and the passionate community that has formed around its products.
GAW’s Main Competitors
Games Workshop Group PLC faces competition from several companies in the hobby gaming industry. These competitors offer their own range of tabletop wargames, miniatures, and related products, targeting a similar customer base of hobbyists and gamers.
One of Games Workshop’s main competitors is Privateer Press, an American company known for its wargame Warmachine and its fantasy battle game Hordes. Privateer Press offers a wide range of highly detailed miniatures and has developed a dedicated following of players who enjoy its unique game systems.
Another significant competitor is Fantasy Flight Games, an American publisher that produces various tabletop games, including the popular wargame Star Wars: Legion. Fantasy Flight Games is known for its high-quality components, immersive gameplay, and licensed properties, making it a formidable player in the industry.
Battlefront Miniatures, a New Zealand-based company, is recognized for its historical wargames, particularly Flames of War, which focuses on World War II battles. Battlefront Miniatures appeals to history enthusiasts and offers a comprehensive range of historically accurate miniatures and rulebooks.
Mantic Games, a British company, is also a notable competitor. It has gained a strong foothold in the industry with games like Kings of War and Warpath. Mantic Games emphasizes affordable miniatures and accessible gameplay, appealing to a broad range of players.
In recent years, there has been a rise in independent game publishers and Kickstarter-funded projects, which further add to the competition. These include companies like CMON (Cool Mini or Not) with games such as Zombicide and Rising Sun, and Modiphius Entertainment with games like Fallout: Wasteland Warfare.
It’s important to note that while Games Workshop faces competition from these companies, it still holds a dominant position in the market due to the enduring popularity of its flagship games like Warhammer 40,000 and Warhammer Age of Sigmar. Games Workshop’s strong brand, extensive range of miniatures, and dedicated community contribute to its continued success despite competition from these rivals.
GAW or Games Workshop Investment Advantages
Investing in Games Workshop Group PLC (GAW) can be an attractive proposition for several reasons. First and foremost, Games Workshop has established itself as a leader in the hobby gaming industry. With its flagship games like Warhammer 40,000 and Warhammer Age of Sigmar, the company has built a loyal and passionate customer base. This dedicated community of hobbyists and gamers provides a steady demand for Games Workshop’s products, ensuring a reliable stream of revenue.
Furthermore, Games Workshop has a proven track record of financial success. The company has consistently delivered strong financial results, with growing revenues and profits over the years. This financial stability and growth can be appealing to investors seeking a reliable and profitable investment opportunity.
Another reason to consider investing in Games Workshop is its strong brand and intellectual property. The Warhammer universe has become an iconic and enduring franchise, expanding beyond tabletop games to novels, video games, and merchandise. This broad appeal and brand recognition provide opportunities for further growth and diversification, both within the gaming industry and in other entertainment sectors.
Moreover, Games Workshop has demonstrated effective management and strategic decision-making. The company has successfully adapted to market trends and embraced digital platforms to enhance its reach and engage with a wider audience. By embracing e-commerce and expanding its online presence, Games Workshop has positioned itself for continued growth and resilience in an evolving retail landscape.
Lastly, Games Workshop’s status as a publicly traded company provides investors with the opportunity to own a stake in a well-established and respected brand. The company’s shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange, offering liquidity and the ability to buy and sell shares on the open market.
It’s important to note that investing in any company carries risks, and thorough research and analysis should be conducted before making any investment decisions. It’s advisable to consider factors such as market conditions, competition, and the overall financial health of the company. Consulting with a financial advisor or professional is also recommended to ensure investment decisions align with individual goals and risk tolerance.
