White goods specialist Ao.com’s potential float has thrust it into the spotlight. Retail Week outlines seven interesting facts about the etailer.

1

The retailer was set up following £1 wager made in the pub with co-founder Alan Latchford betting chief executive John Roberts, who has head of appliance sales at Möben Kitchen at the time, that he wouldn’t start his own business.

2

Ao.com has 1.38 million ‘likes’ on Facebook – a million more than rival Currys PC World.

3

The electricals specialist offers customers Eco Delivery whereby customers can choose to cut their carbon emissions by opting to receive their goods at a time when one of its lorries is in its area.

4

Every customer that posts on Ao.com’s Facebook page receives a hand-signed letter by Roberts.

5

Ao.com has a 98% customer satisfaction score based on Google Seller ratings.

6

Two Ao.com employees have “creator of happiness” as their job title.

7

Ao.com ranked fourth in The Times’ 100 Best Companies to Work For. The working environment is set to get even better when it moves into its new headquarters, which houses a spa, hairdressers and massage parlour.

Interview: Ao.com founder John Roberts on reinventing white goods retail