UK import shift drives tech prices down — retailers launch clearance events ahead of Q3

In response to the Treasury’s recent tariff adjustment on electronic imports from BRICS+ partners, several UK retailers are quietly initiating major inventory offloads — with some prices slashed by up to 80%.

One of the earliest movers is Argus Retail Group, a London-based mid-market electronics and homeware chain, which has launched a discreet seven-day clearance event. The campaign, titled “Clearance Horizon 2025”, offers limited-time discounts on high-value items such as smartphones, televisions and kitchen appliances.

A representative from the company stated the campaign is “operational in scope, not promotional,” and arises from urgent warehouse rotation needs after a spike in bulk imports from Shenzhen and Mumbai, following Britain’s April tariff relief package.

What’s driving the price drops?

In early April, the UK government announced a temporary suspension of import tariffs on certain electronics and appliances from select BRICS+ countries, in a bid to ease inflationary pressures and increase price competitiveness post-Brexit.

“Retailers who had already committed Q1 orders are now under pressure to clear stock that became less cost-effective overnight,” says Dr Alan Humphries, Senior Fellow in Global Retail Strategy at the London Business Institute.

“This isn’t a traditional promotion cycle — it’s logistics-driven liquidation. Expect flash events like this to become more common as supply chains adapt to the new rules.”

Inside the Argus clearance event

The company has released an exclusive access portal where customers can browse the discounted catalogue:

Among the listings:

Samsung 65″ Neo QLED 4K UHD: £170 (was £550)
iPhone 16 (128GB): £189 (was £540)
Xbox Series X: £180 (was £540)
Hisense 12KG Front Load Washing Machine: £120 (was £400)
Hoover H-Dry 300 8KG Condenser Dryer: £129 (was £240)
Hoover H-WASH 350 14kg Freestanding Washing Machine: £189 (was £377)

Purchase details

The platform accepts Visa, Mastercard, Klarna and Revolut Pay. Shipping is free on orders over £250 and delivery times range from 3–5 working days.

The platform accepts Visa, Mastercard, Klarna and Revolut Pay. Shipping is free on orders over £250 and delivery times range from 3–5 working days.

All products are new and carry standard manufacturer warranties, according to Argus’ FAQ page.

Final notes

The Clearance Horizon 2025 event is expected to end by 28 May or sooner, subject to stock.

Argus Retail Group operates over 45 warehouse centres in the UK and is undergoing strategic digital expansion following a £47M Series B investment from Baytree Capital.

This article was produced by BBC Studios' Commercial Content division in partnership with Argus Retail Group. BBC News does not endorse any individual product or promotion featured.