Sainsbury's says JD.com brings 'world class' retail, tech, logistics expertise to Argos

Sainsbury's has confirmed media reports that it is in talks with Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com over the sale of Argos, which it bought for £1.1 billion in 2016.

Argos is the UK’s second largest general merchandise retailer, with the third most visited retail website in the UK and over 1,100 collection points.

Sainsbury's, which is Britain’s second largest supermarket after Tesco, has been ramping up its focus on groceries since Simon Roberts became CEO in 2020.

In a statement posted online, it said: “We are committed to delivering the strongest and most successful future for Argos customers and colleagues and the group’s ‘More Argos, more often’ transformation strategy is delivering solid progress.”

It added: “A transaction with JD.com would accelerate Argos’ transformation. JD.com would bring world class retail, technology and logistics expertise and invest to drive Argos’ growth and further transform the customer experience. The terms of any possible transaction would include commitments from JD.com in relation to Argos for the benefit of customers, colleagues and partners.”

It concluded: “No agreement has been reached and there is no certainty at this stage that any transaction will proceed. A further announcement will be made if and when appropriate.” 

https://t.co/vMhbOUuW9X’s Q2 2025 results are in! YoY revenue growth rate hit a 3-yr high, solidifying our #retail leadership. We’re enhancing customer experience & driving new growth. Join us in fueling quality retail! https://t.co/GhFUG6AHvj pic.twitter.com/zWV1XEaUnY

— JD.com (@JD_Corporate) August 14, 2025

JD.com did not respond to our request for comment. China's largest online retailer is looking to expand outside of its home market. It's 2.2 billion euro takeover of German electricals retailer Ceconomy is currently awaiting regulatory approval.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Omnichannel retail will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which are now open for entries, 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. 

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