AO opens reuse facility in Crewe

Operating out of its Latchford warehouse, appliances returned by customers will be “thoroughly tested” with the aim of reselling them.

Since opening last month, the facility is currently handling approximately 900 appliances a week, including washing machines, fridges and TVs.

Once safety tested, cleaned and repackaged, the appliances are sold for a reduced price on the AO Outlet Ebay shop, available for delivery to UK postcodes.

Recycling

AO’s Recycling is the manufacturer’s waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) treatment arm, which works to turn old fridges, washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers into “valuable resources”.

Appliances that can’t be “reworked” are broken apart and sorted into their constituent metals, plastics and insulation foam at its recycling plant in Shropshire.

‘Second hand market’

Mark Rothwell, head of outlet sales at AO, commented: “Our engineers take the time to thoroughly test these appliances 3 to 4 times so we can guarantee that they’re as good as new for future customers.

“At AO, we believe that reuse is the best form of recycling, so we’re really pleased to offer a new facility to support the second-hand market while also offering some great bargains for our customers.”

AO added that the facility has created several roles for engineers in the local area, with plans to introduce apprenticeships.