Big changes are about to happen at MediaMarkt and Saturn. Both electronics chains want to make themselves fit for the future with a new concept. In the future, customers will no longer find every product in every branch.

Media Markt

Corona and the already taking place change to online shopping does not go past MediaSaturn. The operator of the two German electronics chains has been working on a concept for the future for a long time. From it are four store concepts emerged, according to which all of the more than 1,000 branches in Europe are to be rebuilt (source: Games economy).

MediaMarkt and Saturn: branches are being converted according to four concepts

They go by the names Core, Smart, Xpress and Lighthouse and are supposed to cover different needs, depending on the location of the respective branches.

  • Core: Customers continue to have access to all products and services here, the branches form the centerpiece and – due to their size – are more likely to be located in larger shopping centers and industrial parks.
  • Smart: These are “starting points in the city center”, i.e. in front of all pedestrian zones. In principle, customers also have access to all products here, but there should only be a limited range on site. The focus here is on Click and Collect: Reserve and collect online. That should also be possible more often on the same day.
  • Xpress: These branches are docked with other trading partners, for example supermarkets. A shop-in-shop concept, so to speak.
  • Lighthouse: These should be the showcase stores, so-called flagship stores. Customers can expect a lot of space, the latest technology, shop-in-shop appearances from well-known brands such as Apple or Sony and a varied shopping experience.

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How many Saturn branches will remain?

Gradually, all of the more than 1,000 branches in Europe are to be converted according to these four blueprints. It should also be interesting how many of the branches will be after this renovation still operate under the Saturn brand. They are only available in Germany and Luxembourg, everywhere else the operator has chosen MediaMarkt as a figurehead for local retailers.