Jessops camera stores leave Dragons' Den to start a new chapter in its 91-year history at AO World
Peter Jones sells UK retailer Jessops to washing machine and fridge specialist AO
Jessops, a 91-year-old camera store business, has been sold by Peter Jones, a star from Dragons' Den, to the white goods retailer AO for an undisclosed amount. Jones initially acquired the UK photographic business through administration in 2013, but the company faced challenges, being forced into administration again in 2019 and 2021. In 2025, Jessops recorded a pre-tax loss of £1 million on a turnover of £19.8 million.
The acquisition by AO, known for its fridge and washing machine products, aims to broaden the company's offerings and increase its customer base. AO expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that Jessops brings a trusted brand and specialized expertise in cameras and optical technology. Additionally, Jessops' re-commerce business, Camera Jungle, complements AO's existing musicMagpie operations, enhancing the company's circular economy credentials.
AO reported a turnover of £1.27 billion and an adjusted pre-tax profit of £50.5 million in its latest financial results. The Dragons' Den star bought Jessops out of administration in 2013 (Image credit: Alamy). Founded in 1935 by Frank Jessop in Leicester, the family business was later expanded by his son Alan into a popular high street brand and mail order enterprise.
At its peak, Jessops operated over 300 stores. AO intends to maintain the seven existing Jessops stores located in London, Kingston-upon-Thames, Shrewsbury, Leeds, Sheffield, York, and Glasgow.
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