Omega plc is joining forces with online giant AO to supply and install kitchen appliances for its contract customers.
Omega said that this would give its nationwide network of builders and developers the peace of mind of knowing that stock will be there when required to complete a kitchen installation.
This comes at a time when the pandemic and, to some extent, Brexit have brought about disruptions to the appliance supply chain.
Omega plc chief executive Simon Barber said of the deal: “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.”
Barber 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.”
AO moved into the contracts market in 2019 and has more than 1.3 million sq ft of warehousing and is completing installations across the country every week.
AO Business managing director Anthony Sant 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.”