Ceconomy said its supervisory board will meet on March 12 to discuss the company’s next steps following the announcement that Chief Executive Officer Kai-Ulrich Deissner plans to step down later this year.

The leadership transition comes as the retailer prepares for a major ownership change through its planned takeover by JD.com.

CEO Departure Announced

Deissner, who previously served as the company’s chief financial officer starting in February 2023, became CEO in May 2025.

He confirmed that the board will review the company’s leadership and strategy during the upcoming meeting, though he did not provide further details on potential succession plans.

The executive said his decision to step down was based on personal reasons.

JD.com Acquisition in Progress

Ceconomy is currently moving toward a takeover by JD.com, one of China’s largest technology and e-commerce companies.

According to Deissner, regulatory approval for the acquisition is expected during the first half of the year. The deal would mark a major step for JD.com as it expands its presence in the European retail market.

Strategic Benefits From the Deal

Ceconomy believes the partnership could strengthen its competitive position through JD.com’s logistics and technology capabilities.

The company operates major European electronics retail brands including MediaMarkt and Saturn.

Access to JD.com’s supply chain technology and logistics infrastructure could help improve delivery efficiency, digital operations, and online sales capabilities.

Next Steps for the Retailer

The upcoming supervisory board meeting is expected to address both leadership continuity and integration planning ahead of the potential acquisition.

For investors and industry observers, the leadership transition and takeover process will be key developments shaping Ceconomy’s strategy in the coming months.