JD.com is preparing to take control of Ceconomy, the parent company of MediaMarktSaturn and MediaWorld, following the completion of the final approval process.

The Chinese e-commerce group has acquired a 75% stake in Ceconomy, with the remaining 25% retained by the Kellerhals family, founders of the European retail business. The transaction is expected to close on 12 November 2026.

The deal brings one of Europe’s largest consumer electronics retailers, with more than 1,000 stores and approximately 50,000 employees, under the control of JD.com.

Ceconomy CEO Remko Rijnders says the partnership will accelerate the group’s omnichannel retail strategy, combining its established European retail presence with JD.com’s technology, logistics and digital platform expertise.

JD.com CEO Sandy Xu says the priority will be to support Ceconomy’s sustainable growth and strengthen its competitive position across Europe.

For customers, the companies point to wider product choice, faster deliveries and quicker access to new technologies.

Ceconomy says its existing business model and strategy will remain in place, with its management board continuing to oversee day-to-day operations and business strategy. JD.com has also made commitments to protect employees, brands and stores.

What it means for the trade

The acquisition creates a significant new force in European electrical retail, combining Ceconomy’s established store network with JD.com’s technology and logistics capabilities. Suppliers and competitors will be watching closely to see how the partnership influences product distribution, online retail, pricing and the customer experience.