Online electricals retailer AO World has sealed a deal with Dragons' Den star Peter Jones to acquire camera retailer Jessops. The purchase price was not disclosed, but AO World confirmed the acquisition was funded from its existing cash resources.
Strategic expansion
AO World said the deal supports its strategy of expanding into adjacent categories, giving customers and members more reasons to shop with AO and increase its share of wallet. The company added that Jessops brings a trusted brand and specialist expertise in cameras and optical technology.
Jessops was established in 1935 and was salvaged by Peter Jones following its collapse into administration in 2013. Jones reopened scores of stores that had been closed, but the business entered administration for a second time in 2019 and a third time in 2021.
Financial performance
The camera retailer now trades from just eight stores, having previously operated more than 300 across the country, following a dramatic withdrawal from the high street. Jessops generated just under £20m in revenues for the year ending September 2025, its latest accounts reveal, marking a 6.5 per cent rise on the previous year, driven by growing online sales. The firm recorded a loss of £1.1m for the year, marginally down on the previous year.
Leadership comment
AO World founder and chief executive John Roberts said: "I am delighted to welcome Jessops into the AO family and look forward to growing the existing business as well as integrating the category into the wider AO business."
The transaction represents the latest purchase by AO after it acquired Music Magpie in December 2024. AO World announced on Thursday that it anticipated reporting a 5.5 per cent increase in sales and a rise in profit exceeding 20 per cent for the six months ending in September, attributing the growth to enhanced performance in its mobile and handset division.
Roberts added: "There continues to be a lot of uncertainty in the world but we look forward to heading into peak trading with confidence and momentum behind us."
