Belonging at AO
At AO, we believe that everyone should feel seen, heard, and valued. Belonging isn’t just a feeling, it’s part of building a business where people can do their best work, share new ideas and thrive.
We’re proud to be different, and we work hard to make sure those differences are celebrated. We know that when people feel they belong, they’re more likely to do their best work, bring fresh ideas and help us build a stronger business.
Our approach is woven into everything we do, from how we hire and grow our people, to how we shape our culture and make decisions. We’re committed to making sure every AOer has a voice in influencing the place they work, and we’re focused on turning good intentions into meaningful action through listening, learning and continually improving.
AO is committed to diversity in the workplace
“We’re on a mission to be the UK’s most trusted retailer, underpinned by brilliant people who thrive, grow and do their best work in a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture”
Our people and culture have always been a huge priority at AO. Any success we experience comes from our people being who they are, loving what they do and striving to reach their full potential. We know this will only happen if we create a working environment where people feel equal, as well as supported on their journey through the business.
John Roberts, CEO
Our culture
At AO, we already regularly measure employee engagement, and that remains an important way of understanding how our people feel about working here. But engagement alone only tells part of the story…
To better understand why people feel the way they do, we also measure our culture. In 2026, we ran our first ever Culture Survey across the business, introducing AO’s unique Cultural Index Score and measuring our people’s sense of belonging.
The Cultural Index Score provides a simple and transparent measure of the employee experience. It helps us identify what’s working well, track progress over time and focus our efforts on the areas that will have the greatest impact for our people.
By listening to AOers and measuring what matters, we’re able to make informed decisions that help create a stronger, more inclusive culture for everyone.
Our people led networks
Our networks are authentic and always evolving. They play an important role in helping us build a culture where everyone feels they belong. Led by passionate AOers, they help us better understand the lived experiences of our people, challenge us to think differently and influence meaningful change across the business. As well as creating opportunities for connection and support, our networks help review policies and training, develop resources and guidance for AOers and managers, improve understanding of different communities and identify opportunities to make AO even more inclusive. They’re a vital part of how we listen, learn and continue evolving our culture. Below is a snapshot of some of the networks that make AO a place where everyone can feel supported and heard.
Women at AO
Women at AO have been instrumental in supporting and raising awareness of women’s unique health, challenges and lived experiences, from endometriosis and fertility to menopause and pregnancy loss. Our Women in Leadership events help women at AO prepare for and overcome perceived barriers to their future career aspirations.
Neuro Navigators
Neuro Navigators brings together and supports neurodivergent AOers, who challenge us to think differently, and influence decisions we make to drive positive change. They’ve created communities including Coffee & Connection meet ups for parents of neurodivergent children.
New Parents
New Parents forum brings AOers together to share experiences and support one another through parenthood. Our annual maternity survey tells us the return to work after having a baby can be daunting, so the community helps us to continuously improve the support we offer.
Religions & Beliefs
Our Religions & Beliefs forum brings together people of all faiths and beliefs to connect, learn and celebrate. The group have been instrumental in driving meaningful improvements to our ways of working and flexibility of facilities to pray and practice traditions that matter to them.
Real stories, real people
At AO, belonging isn’t just something we talk about, it’s something our people feel and live every day. Take a look at some of our activity and events below, including AOers and guest speakers, as they share their personal experiences, perspectives and the communities that matter to them.
Women in Leadership
Neuro Navigators
Menopause Masterclass
Together in every moment
From awareness events and celebrations to workshops, guest speakers and community activities, there’s always something going on at AO. These moments help us learn as a business and from each other, to celebrate our differences and build a culture where everyone feels they belong. Here’s a glimpse of what that looks like in action.
What’s next
Belonging at AO is a journey, not a finish line. We’re always listening to our people, learning from their experiences and looking for ways to make AO an even better place to work. Whether it’s feedback from surveys, conversations across teams or the everyday moments that matter, the voices of our people help shape what comes next.
We’re committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, supported and able to be themselves. That means removing barriers, creating fair opportunities and making sure everyone has the chance to grow and thrive at AO.
One of the ways we’re doing that is through our ongoing commitment to reducing the gender pay gap and promoting fair, transparent opportunities for all.
Explore how we’re putting this commitment into action in our Gender Pay Gap Report.