JB Hi-Fi CEO Nick Wells has made his first public comments since the retailer decided to end its Narta membership on 31 December 2026 after 25 years, explaining that the move reflects both parties’ current priorities. The announcement had raised questions among suppliers about timing and continuity. He addressed those questions directly.
Wells said the retailer and Narta jointly considered the timing right to conclude the membership. He linked the decision to JB Hi-Fi’s present scale and said it would allow Narta to concentrate on supporting its members. He also thanked the Narta team, describing the group as an important part of JB Hi-Fi’s growth and saying the retailer would work closely with Narta in the coming weeks on a smooth transition.
Suppliers had asked why the decision was made now and what it would mean for buying and data services previously managed by Narta. Wells said it would be business as usual until the membership ends, after which JB Hi-Fi would need to bring some of those services in-house.
He also addressed whether the change warranted market disclosure, saying the decision was not about generating more money but about letting both organisations focus on the future. From an ASX perspective, he said, it was not material.