Argos consumer news
The New Argos Catalogue… Now in its 35th year
18 January 2008
The 69th Argos catalogue is unveiled today with a record breaking 18,500 products - 1800 more than a year ago. With around 3000 price cuts and a potential cost saving of more than £60 million compared to the catalogue it replaces, it really is "Packed with Great Value".
In 2008, Argos celebrates its 35th year, and the company has adapted to continually changing customer needs since it launched the very first UK retail catalogue in 1973. According to Argos managing director, Sara Weller, "Our first catalogue contained 4,700 products and around 250 pages.
"The new Spring/Summer 2008 catalogue stretches to nearly 1,800 pages, and once again we have expanded our offer to include more lines that customers tell us they want. Exciting new ranges include everything from children’s bedroom furniture to fitness clothing and from fence panels to saunas and spas".
It is not only the catalogue that has changed since 1973. When Argos launched, the only electronic item in store was the till. Sara continues "We now use the latest technology to offer customers the most convenient ways to shop - from checking stock levels and reserving in advance via text, online or on the phone to delivering products directly to your home."
The launch of a new Argos catalogue is something of an event, as over two million customers rush into stores to be amongst the first to pick up a copy on launch weekend. Now, there’s more reason than ever to do this as Argos launches its new and extensive Value range. With over 80 products in the Argos Value range from toasters to DVD players, it represents exceptional value for money. Highlights include a kettle for as little as £4.69, an electric knife for £4.89 and a 4 piece non-stick pan set for an incredible £7.99.
Comparing prices to 1973, an entry level iron was £2.95 (now £3.99) and a 2 slice toaster was £5.25 (now £3.49). Argos has always reflected the changes in tastes and technology over the years while delivering great value, and the 2008 catalogue includes the latest video gaming must-haves as well as exclusive ranges such as Ministry of Sound tents and an outdoor toy range from Fisher Price alongside premium brands such as Dualit and Calvin Klein.
There are 10,400 products available for immediate pick up in virtually all 700-plus Argos stores, with up an additional 4,000 items available from directly from stock in larger stores. All the remaining products – including large items such as beds – are available through Argos’ flexible home delivery service.
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Notes to editors
- In 1973 the Argos catalogue featured 4,700 items on 250 pages and there were 16 stores across the country. Sales on the first day totalled £43,027 with people buying products from adding machines and birdcages to percolators and hostess trolleys.
- Six new Argos stores opened this weekend across the country
About Argos
Argos is a unique retailer recognised for choice, value and convenience. It sells general merchandise and products for the home from 700 stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland, online and over the telephone.
In the last financial year, Argos sales grew 8% to £4.2 billion and it employed some 34,000 people across the business.
Argos serves over 130 million customers a year through its stores and takes four million customer orders either online or over the phone. On average, 17 million UK households, or around two thirds of the population, have an Argos catalogue at home at any time.
Argos expects to add around 30 stores per annum with the chain expected to exceed 800 over time. Its Internet site, www.argos.co.uk, is the second most visited retail site in the UK.
Argos is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.
