Kitchen furniture manufacturer Omega Plc has joined forces with electrical retailer AO to distribute and install appliances in the contracts market.

Managing director of AO Business Anthony Sant

The partnership will see AO supply appliances for Omega’s national network so developers and builders will have confidence of stock when completing a kitchen installation.

CEO of Omega PLC Simon Barber said: “There have been many unexpected challenges caused by the pandemic.

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“This uncertainty quickly became a major headache for developers and builders, with the potential to jeopardise house completions.

“The industry expressed deep concern that the shortage and uncertainty could undermine the revival of the housing market, so it was one we were determined to address.

“With every challenge there is also an opportunity and working with AO to guarantee the supply of branded appliances with our branded kitchens is an exciting first.

“We’re delighted we can now offer our partners the assurance that we can also deliver appliances on time with our contract kitchens.”

Anthony Sant, managing director of AO Business, said: “Our aim with this partnership is to bring the exceptional customer service that AO has become famous for to Omega’s network as well as to guarantee market-leading appliance supply and installation to remove uncertainty and potential costly delays.”

Sponsor of the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) AO moved into the contracts market in 2019 to service national and regional housebuilders.

Since the start of 2020, it has also increased warehouse capacity by 500,000sqft, and from two to five warehouses across the UK with a total of 1.2million sqft.

The expanded facilities allow the electrical retailer to hold three months of stock for calling off on a next-day delivery and installation basis.

Simon Barber stated: “AO has already initiated a stocking up period for Omega Contracts with a phased approach for site starts, which we anticipate beginning in Q1, 2021.”