Omega PLC and online electricals retailer AO have announced a national partnership for the distribution and installation of kitchen appliances in the contracts market.

The partnership will see AO supply kitchen appliances for Omega’s nationwide network and promises to give builders and developers the security of knowing that stock will be there when required to coincide with a kitchen installation.

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

“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, MD 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.”

With over 1.3 million square feet of warehousing and completing installations across the UK every week, AO moved into the contracts market in 2019 to service national and regional Housebuilders.

Simon added: “The ongoing challenges created by Covid-19 are like nothing the industry has seen before due to the disruption to supply chains around the world, which has placed many companies under enormous pressure.

“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″.

Since the start of 2020, AO have also increased warehouse capacity by 500,000 square ft, and from two to five warehouses across the UK with a total of 1.2 million square ft.

This expanded infrastructure provides AO with the ability to hold three months of stock for calling off on a next day delivery and installation basis. This means Omega can trust in the knowledge that the right appliance will be available at the right time for delivery and installation. 

Omega plc is a brand leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality fitted kitchen furniture.  The manufacturer supplies British-made kitchens throughout the UK to house builders and property developers through Omega Contracts as well as via a network of specialist retailers.