As the second most visited internet retailer in the UK, Argos has committed to reinventing itself a digital retail leader, as outlined in its Q3 results.

Online Check & Reserve remains the fastest growing channel, at 30 per cent of total sales, with mobile shopping representing seven per cent, contributing in excess of £100m in the period.

“We have also concluded a comprehensive business review of Argos which highlighted a clear opportunity to transform the business through increased investment in digital technologies,” said Terry Duddy, chief exec of Home Retail Group, which owns Argos.

“The transformation plan aims to deliver growth by repositioning Argos as a digitally-led business from a catalogue-led business, leading the market growth of digital commerce through online, mobile and tablet, and offering customers more products with the fastest, most convenient fulfilment options.”

This means reduced circulation of the loved and loathed Argos catalogue, which has been printed twice a year since 1973, moving it into a supporting role. Duddy added: “In the last 10 years this is the biggest thing we have done.”