Argos is expecting internet sales to make up three quarters of its sales by 2016, as sales both online and instore continue to rise at the high street retailer.
The retailer generated sales of £3.9 billion during 2012, a like-for-like rise of 2.1 per cent year-on-year.
Total internet sales grew in the period, with online accounting for 43 per cent of Argos’ total sales, up from 40 per cent a year ago. This growth was supported by mobile sales, which increased by 117 per cent over 2011.
Argos is refocusing its efforts in a substantial switch to digital retail. Managing Director, John Walden is spearheading the digital recast, which will bring with it the development of Argos own-brand products in a bid to offer low-price value against online competition.
As part of the new own-brand vision, Argos have hired Joanne Savage to the newly created position of head of own-brand. Having held positions at Unilever, and as the former global director of brand identity at Nokia, Joanne brings with her a wealth of UK and international experience.
“Innovating on own brands for Argos will be critical to its success, and will unlock a natural path for customers to buy a broader range of exclusive products from us more regularly,” commented Joanne.
Commenting on the appointment of Joanne, John Walden commented, “Her appointment in this new senior role reflects the importance of our owned brands within the five-year transformation plan. I am sure she will bring significant fresh thinking to this area.”
