AO World will snap up second-hand tech buyer and seller MusicMagpie in a £9.98m deal in a bid to boost its presence in the mobile and consumer tech market.
The deal, which is expected to complete in early 2025, received backing from MusicMagpie’s board, with directors unanimously recommending the offer.
AO World chair Geoff Cooper said: “With highly complementary business models, this acquisition will enable us to broaden our customer offerings while simultaneously advancing our sustainability objective.”
The electricals retailer said the acquisition would drive growth in key product categories.
AO chief executive John Roberts said: “To achieve our strategic ambition of becoming the destination for electricals, it is crucial for AO to enhance its consumer tech offering. A top-tier trade-in service will be essential, and MusicMagpie represents a significant enabler in unlocking value through our reverse supply chain.
“Moreover, MusicMagpie stands to leverage our existing supply channels, which could lower its cost of acquisition and allow us to scale refurbished technology with operational precision. MusicMagpie’s commitment to customer satisfaction and its exceptional brand are closely aligned with our values, and our shared cultures create a strong foundation for collaboration.”
MusicMagpie chief executive and co-founder Steve Oliver added: “AO is a highly trusted consumer brand that shares our commitment to providing a first-rate service for customers.
“I am very proud of the MusicMagpie business and the trusted brand that we have created, providing consumers with a smart, sustainable and trusted way to buy, rent and sell refurbished consumer technology and physical media products.
“We welcome the opportunity to join the AO Group and believe it represents a natural custodian for MusicMagpie as part of the next stage of the business’ development.”
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