The move, subject to shareholder approval, is likely to take place in the next six to 12 months and will result in both companies being listed separately on the London Stock Exchange.
The decision marks the final stage in a strategic review that began in 2002. The group sold its 66 per cent share in luxury brand Burberry last December.
Argos and Experian will continue to be led by their existing management teams.
GUS chairman Sir Victor Blank said: 'Both Argos and Experian are well positioned in their chosen markets and both have proven management teams and clear strategies for growth. A UK demerger will enable all of GUS's existing shareholders to continue to participate directly in the future development of these successful businesses.'
Argos Retail Group includes the eponymous catalogue chain and the Homebase DIY business.
Experian has headquarters in Nottingham and Costa Mesa, California. It employs 12,000 people in 31 countries and has annual sales of more than£1.5 billion.
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