MediaMarkt

MediaMarkt is a German multinational chain specializing in consumer electronics, operating over 1,000 stores across Europe. Founded in 1979 by Leopold Stiefel, Walter Gunz, Erich Kellerhals, Markus Fernandez, and Helga Kellerhals, the first store opened in Munich. In 1988, Kaufhof Warenhaus AG acquired a 54% stake in the holding company. Expansion into neighboring countries began in 1989, and in 1990, MediaMarkt acquired the competing Saturn chain. In 1996, Metro AG was formed through a merger, and MediaMarkt and Saturn were managed as independent brands within the group. In 2017, Metro Group demerged, and Ceconomy AG became the parent company of MediaMarkt. In November 2025, Chinese company JD.com acquired a 59.8% stake in Ceconomy AG for €2.2 billion, integrating JD.com's logistics and technological efficiency with MediaMarkt's extensive physical store network. This acquisition aims to strengthen MediaMarkt's position in the European retail market by leveraging JD.com's expertise in artificial intelligence and data analysis.