AO recycles five million appliances in five years NEWS


AO has recycled over five million household appliances since opening its recycling facility five years ago. Based in Telford, AO Recycling aims to safely recycle large domestic appliances,


including fridges, washing machines, tumble driers, cookers and dishwashers. The Shropshire plant is best known for responsibly disposing of fridges with its 80- tonne fridge crunching machine, called ‘Bertha’, that collects any harmful gases that are released. However, a range of other appliances also receive the full ‘AO’ treatment once they arrive at the plant. As many appliances as possible are skilfully refurbished to be sold on via trade and outlet shops – and over 200,000 appliances have received a new lease of life so far. In a recent survey from AO Recycling, one third of Brits admitted to having at least one


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washing machine they no longer use, with nine per cent also revealing they have three still in their home – which shows uncertainty about how to dispose of large appliances. Robert Sant, Managing Director of AO Recycling, said: “There is a growing desire


for a simple collection service for our unwanted appliances and we hope to continue recycling as many appliances as possible via our recycling services.” In other news, the online electricals retailer recently announced the move to a


20,000sq ft site in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. AO said that over the last two years it has increased its warehousing capacity by over 80 per cent, rapidly growing its distribution network and creating over 1,000 logistics jobs across the business. The network of depots is supplied by AO’s main distribution centres in Crewe,


Stafford and Stoke and the nationwide delivery coverage ensures that AO is never more than one hour away from customers.


David Ashwell, MD of AO Logistics, said: “I’m so pleased that we’re able to


invest in Larkhall and move to a bigger site in the area – the rapid expansion of AO Logistics is really a testament to the hard work of our people. The new depot is in an ideal location to support our future growth as a business – we’ll be able to serve our customers in South Lanarkshire even better than before and it means we’re securing the best infrastructure for the future.”


Applications at all stages of development, including design and concept, are welcome. The winner will be announced at Electrical Safety


First’s Annual Product Safety Conference, where they will have a platform to discuss their innovation with the audience. They will also be offered ongoing support via media coverage, tailored newsletters and, where applicable, a half day of coaching from Electrical Safety First’s highly respected Technical Team – explaining everything you need to know to deliver your idea or get your product to market. All short-listed applicants will also be offered a


space in the conference networking area, where they can network and give demonstrations of their work. Electrical Safety First’s internationally


Shining the spotlight on safety innovation


Currently in its sixth year, the Safety Innovation Award from industry charity, Electrical Safety First, puts the spotlight on those individuals and businesses who put safety at the heart of their work, while incorporating sustainability and innovation.


The charity is inviting applications from businesses,


community groups and individuals who have developed (or are developing) an innovative product – or a project – that can enhance consumer safety. So do you have an innovative electrical project or


product which improves (or seeks to improve) consumer safety, that you want to bring to a wide professional audience? Entries for the award are now open, and the deadline for submissions is 31 August 2022.


recognised Annual Conference, which takes place each November, is attended by over 200 delegates, from throughout the electro-technical industry – and beyond.


This year, the event will be held in person once again at Church House, Westminster on 23 November 2022.


For more information: www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/award


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