Online white goods retailer Ao.com is understood to have written to suppliers asking them to clarify whether Dixons gets better terms than they do.

According to The Independent, some suppliers were angered and responded saying they would never discuss arrangements with rival businesses.

It is understood the letters were sent after Dixons claimed its products were 3% cheaper than online-only rivals – such as Ao.com – and that it had better relationships with suppliers.

Ao.com decided to ask suppliers after being questioned on the claim during one of its roadshows for the etailer’s flotation.

Ao.com has said it wants to become the biggest white goods business in Europe.