Revenue rises for white goods firm AO

THERE was some festive cheer for online retailer AO World which defied Christmas woes to post a rise in revenue in the third quarter.

The white goods specialist said UK sales grew 4.4 per cent in the three months to the end of December, with overall group revenue up 8.2pc thanks to a boost from Black Friday.

But the firm saw its greatest success in Europe as a whole, with revenue soaring 31.3pc over the quarter.

Bolton-based AO World’s positive results came after so-called Super Thursday, when a host of retailers posted updates for their festive trading.

The company joins a small group of firms that have defied troubles on the high street.

AO World said the strong trading was driven by extended Black Friday discounting.

Chief executive Steve Caunce said: “Against a challenging backdrop, the third quarter represents a solid performance across the AO group. We are on track with our plans as we continue to provide a great proposition for our customers.”

AO World said its expectations for the full year are unchanged.