Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com builds on Ochama move in Europe as it gets ready to rumble in UK

JD.com has entered into recruitment mode as it works on an entry in to the UK market.

This follows an initial excursion under the Joybuy brand, with a soft launch beginning in the second half of 2024, and the platform running a closed beta among users in London.

In 2022, JD.com introduced a new offering in Europe under the Ochama brand, aiming to bring its omnichannel retail model - blending online and offline channels - into European countries. The UK moves marks its latest attempt to secure a foothold in a mature e-commerce space. As of 2024, the UK’s retail e-commerce market was valued at $160 billion, ranking third globally.

In a LinkedIn post, Matthew Nobbs, Chief Merchandise Officer, JD.com, said: "Getting ready to rumble in the UK for one of China’s biggest success stories. With global annual turnover of in excess of $157 billion last year- we are coming to the UK. Calling all category superstars. If you are a Category Manager or a seasoned expert Senior Category Manager- we are hiring right now in London.

He added: "We need passionate talent in: Small and Large Domestic Appliances; Consumer Electronics; Home and Living; World Foods; Toys; Baby; FMCG; Ambient Grocery; Fashion; Commercial Internships and the renowned TET graduate leadership programme."

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

E-commerce will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in April, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.