Argos has hired former Tesco.com business programme director Andy Brown to a newly created role to help improve store product availability.

As head of customer fulfilment for stores Brown will be working across Argos’ 700-plus property estate. He is leading the development of local fulfilment options to support the expected increase in collection in store sales, particularly in same day orders, as it seeks to become a digital leader.

Brown, who has already started at the retailer, said: “We have a unique opportunity to enhance availability of products within customers’ local stores, and allow a greater range to be ordered into store for collection same day or next day.”

At Tesco, Brown helped lead the transformation of the online business, and has also previously worked at strategy consultant OC&C.

Argos retail operations director Steve Carson said: “Andy’s experience will be invaluable for this newly created senior role.

“Few companies in the UK can match Argos’ ability to move as many non-food products into local markets on a national scale, as fast and as efficiently. The ability to enable stores to offer a wider range for same day availability is a key part of our five year transformation plan.”