Stores say PlayStation 2 supplies are on the way

Games retailers are keeping their fingers crossed that supplies of PlayStation 2 come through to ease the crisis that has plagued them in recent weeks.

Production and supply problems at the console's manufacturer Sony have resulted in a shortage of PlayStation 2s in the UK (Retail Week, November 26), but stores are hopeful that fresh supplies will come through within days to help meet demand.

A Woolworths spokesman said: 'We are going to have some for the weekend - that should be good enough to last for three or four days.' A further consignment is expected next weekend, but after that the situation is unclear.

Market leader Game also said PlayStation 2s were expected to arrive 'within days', but was unsure if it would be able to fulfil customer demand. A spokesman said: 'It depends on how many we get. Demand is still huge. Everything that does come in sells very quickly. We have a very close relationship with our customers and are keeping them informed.'

A Dixons spokeswoman said: 'It's a waiting game. So far, we have had small amounts of PS2s on shelf, but they have gone like hot cakes.'