Argos catalogue

Argos is one of the United Kingdom's most iconic retail brands, famously known for its unique catalog-based shopping model. Founded in 1973 by Richard Tompkins, the brand revolutionized the high street by allowing customers to browse a physical 'Book of Dreams' catalogue, fill out order slips, and collect items from a warehouse counter. Over the decades, it transitioned from a purely physical catalogue business into one of the UK's leading digital retailers.

While the physical catalogue production was officially discontinued in 2020 to align with digital-first consumer habits, the brand continues to operate as a technology-led retailer. The company's operations, including logistics and the design of its digital platform, are centered in the UK, where most of its administrative and distribution infrastructure is located.

Ownership of Argos has shifted significantly over the years. Originally part of Green Shield Trading Stamp Company, it was later owned by GUS plc and Home Retail Group. In 2016, the brand was acquired by the supermarket giant J Sainsbury plc. Today, Argos is fully integrated into the Sainsbury’s ecosystem, with many of its standalone stores moving into supermarket locations to streamline the shopping experience for millions of British customers.