What Sainsbury’s is Doing With Argos: Nine Stores Goodbye, 13 New in the Same Spot
Short‑form headline: Sainsbury’s is pulling Argos out of the standalone shops and sliding those brands into the supermarket corridors – nine doors shut, 13 new fronts opening.
Financial Snapshot – A Bit of a Usual Day
- Argos sales dipped 5% over the last 28‑week period ending 14 September.
- Clothing sales fell by 1.5% – a minor hit, but still a hit.
- For the full year, Sainsbury’s plans to open 13 Argos outlets inside its supermarkets while slapping the crown off nine stand‑alone sites.
So, what does that mean for your favourite Argos store? It probably means you’ll be picking up your new phone in the middle of your milk run, but you might have to search a bit harder for that quirky toy you had in mind. Just roll with it.
Inside the Argos–Sainsbury’s Partnership
According to an Argos spokesperson speaking to The Sun, the company is “transforming at a pace that’s been going on for years.” That includes:
- Opening new Argos stores and collection points inside Sainsbury’s supermarkets.
- Letting customers shop for tech, home sets, and toys while grabbing their groceries.
- Creating a hybrid experience that’s all about convenience, instant pick‑up, and a one‑stop shop vibe.
Industry Insight: A Note From the PwC Side
PwC’s Industry lead, Lisa Hooker, opines:
“Consumers still want a place to grab a coffee, a last‑minute present or just enjoy in‑store shopping. But the high streets are still feeling the heat of more closures than openings.”
“We need policymakers, communities and businesses to step in, repurpose and invest in struggling locations.”
“Spaces must evolve for the hybrid world – offering convenience, variety and a splash of fun to keep customers excited about stepping in.”
Business‑Friendly Takeaway for Those on the Fence
For companies considering strategic closures as part of a cost‑saving plan:
- Make sure you get the right insolvency adviser – they’ll keep the process smooth, legal and with minimal reputational damage.
- Let your brand survive the transition, protecting long‑term interests.
Takeaway for You
So the next time you’re at Sainsbury’s, you might find an Argos shop tucked in the fitting room aisle. It’s a win‑win for you: more product choices where your grocery cart waits. For Sainsbury’s and Argos, it’s a whole lot of numbers adding up to a fresher, hybrid shopping experience.
Stay tuned for the latest about these changes – the high street charts are always shifting, and we’ve got you covered.
