AO World acquires Jessops in cash deal with Peter Jones

AO World confirmed it has taken over Jessops, the historic camera retailer that has shrunk to eight locations after multiple administrations. The purchase was funded entirely from AO's existing cash and was negotiated with Peter Jones, who first saved Jessops in 2013 and later oversaw its re-opening of stores. Jessops' latest accounts show revenue just under £20 million for the year ending September 2025, a 6.5% rise driven by online sales, though it posted a £1.1 million loss.

AO founder and chief executive John Roberts said the acquisition supports the group's strategy to expand into adjacent categories and deepen customer loyalty. The deal follows AO's recent acquisition of Music Magpie and comes as the company expects a 5.5% sales increase and over 20% profit growth for the six months to September.