The remaining 30 Argos stores in the Republic of Ireland closed permanently at 5pm on Saturday.
More than 500 employees lost their jobs as a result of the move.
Argos parent Sainsbury’s announced a plan to close outlets in January as part of a wider group plan to focus its business on food.
The retailer said it made the decision to leave the Republic of Ireland after careful consideration over a long period of time and a thorough review of its operations and operations in the country, reports RTE.
The company said its model here was a bespoke model significantly different from its wider UK operations, which will continue to operate, and that the investment needed to expand and modernize its Irish operations was unprofitable.
“We understand our announcement in January came as difficult news for our customers and colleagues. We did not make this decision lightly and I would like to thank everyone that has supported our operation in the Republic of Ireland for over 25 years,” said Andy McClelland, Argos Ireland Operations Manager, reports RTE.
Argos said it will continue to honor its statutory obligations to customers and has been working closely with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in the final months before the store closures.
It said customers can contact Argos if they need help with a product purchased in the Republic of Ireland.
They can contact the company if they have an outstanding balance on their Argos Euro Gift Card.
However, it warned that Sainsbury’s and Argos stores in the UK, including Northern Ireland, are unable to process returns, refunds or exchanges on products purchased in the Republic.
As for workers losing their jobs, the company said it had done everything possible so far to support its people in leadership.
These include an extended exemption package, a one-time payment for those not eligible for exemption, and a recruitment enhancement program and other forms of support.
“We will continue to help those affected however we can as the Irish part of our business winds down,” Mr McClelland said, reports RTE.
The network operated in the Republic of Ireland for 27 years.
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