News
Argos is scrapping its iconic catalogue after nearly 50 years
This is a really sad day!!
Argos has revealed it will be scrapping its iconic catalogue after producing it for almost 50 years.
It’s official, 2020 is over. Argos has decided to bid a ‘fond farewell’ to their humble catalogue that fulfilled every single child in the UK’s dreams at Christmas.
The retailer, that specialises in homeware, electronics and toys, has found shoppers are increasingly turning to online shopping as opposed to circling everything you want from your Christmas list in a book that weighs more than you.
Chief executive of Argos’ parent company Sainsbury’s, Simon Roberts, said in an email to staff: “As most customers are now browsing and ordering online, we have decided that the time is right to stop printing the Argos catalogue.
“Removing the printed catalogue helps us to flex our range and offers and to be more competitive on price.”
The catalogue has been running for 48 long years, after first launching in 1972, producing over 1 billion copies.
Each year, two editions are printed and piled high in towering pillars on either side of the door of Argos.
Over the years, celebs such as Holly Willoughby, Emma Buton and Tess Daly have all made an appearance. Even Arnold Schwarzeneggar has made an appearance on the iconic catalogue.
The sad news comes as Argos finds most of its customers are shopping on smartphones and tablets, accounting for 70% of online sales.
Luckily, a separate Christmas gift guide will still be printed so we can still get our catalogue fix.
Mark Given, chief marketing officer at Sainsbury’s, said: “Just as our customers’ tastes have changed over the years, so have their shopping habits.
“We’re seeing an increasing shift towards digital shopping, using our mobile app, website and in-store browsers. Closing the book on the catalogue will help us focus on delivering exciting and inspiring digital shopping experiences to meet the changing needs of our customers, both in-store and online.”
It really is a sad day, RIP Argos Catalogue. Gone but never forgotten x