In a move that marks a significant shift in their retail strategy, Argos is set to close an additional seven stores across the UK next month. The closures are part of the company’s plan to shut down 100 sites in 2023. Already this year, 37 stores have been closed, including the complete closure of all 34 branches in the Republic of Ireland last month.
Argos, a subsidiary of Sainsbury’s, had announced its intention to close 100 stores earlier this year as part of a broader plan by its parent company to close a total of 420 standalone stores within the next three-and-a-half years. The retailer aims to move towards a new model, with 160 standalone stores and around 430-460 counters integrated within Sainsbury’s supermarkets by the following year.
Speaking about the closures, an Argos spokesperson highlighted the company’s commitment to convenience for customers and the strategic decision to relocate many of its standalone stores inside Sainsbury’s outlets. The spokesperson stated, “Brand new Argos stores will open inside Sainsbury’s Grimsby and Sainsbury’s Scunthorpe next month, enabling customers to purchase thousands of technology, home, and toy products from Argos while picking up their groceries.”
As part of this shift, several Argos stores are scheduled for closure next month. According to the Mail Online, the list includes the following locations:
St Stephen’s Shopping Centre, Hull – Closing on August 8
Alexandra Retail Park, Grimsby – Closing on August 9
Lakeside Retail Park, Scunthorpe – Closing on August 15/16
Riverside, Norwich – Date TBC
Park Plaza, Bridgend – Date TBC
Cardiff Bay – Date TBC
Newport Road, Cardiff – Date TBC
This transformation in Argos’ retail landscape reflects the company’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer behaviors and preferences. By embracing the integrated store concept within Sainsbury’s supermarkets, Argos aims to enhance convenience and better serve its customers’ needs.
As the closures and relocations take place, it will be interesting to see how this strategic shift unfolds and how it will impact the shopping experience for Argos customers in the coming months.