Dixons Carphone marks merger completion with seven combined stores

Dixons Carphone today opens its first seven combined shops, as the companies that were previously Carphone Warehouse and Dixons mark their first day trading as a merged busness.

The two companies previously said their merger, first announced in May and approved by shareholders in July, would create a multichannel leader in the sale of new connected products while also bringing advice, connectivity and services to bear in helping customers get the most out of the technology they use.

Today Sebastian James, group chief executive of Dixons Carphone, said: “Today is a big day: our shares officially start trading on the stock exchange and we are off to a flying start with the opening of our first seven combined shops.

“Customers using the Currys, PC World and Carphone Warehouse websites will be guided to the right place to buy from the whole range that we have to offer together, from a toaster to the latest smartphone.

“Our offices now proudly show our new combined identity and up and down the country we are delivering a clear message to our teams and to our customers: we are one.”

He said today’s shop launches were “testament to the excitement, enthusiasm and incredible hard work” of its teams. “If this is what we can achieve on the first day, then the days to come should be very exciting indeed.”

James added: “We’re creating an organisation for the future where the products are just the beginning. We will not only help customers to access the technology and the connectivity that is right for them but also find the expertise and services that bring them to life – the first and best company to offer this complete end-to-end proposition.”

Sebastian James, former Dixons chief executive, takes the same role in the merged company and Andrew Harrison, previously chief executive of Carphone Warehouse is now deputy chief executive. Sir Charles Dunstone, co-founder of Carphone Warehouse, is chairman of the new company.