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Business June 18, 2026

UMVA Exclusive: Labour Under Fire as AO World CEO Exposes Shocking Job Exodus to South Africa Amidst Record-Shattering Profits

UMVA Exclusive: Labour Under Fire as AO World CEO Exposes Shocking Job Exodus to South Africa Amidst Record-Shattering Profits

UMVA has learned that a high-profile CEO has launched a scathing attack on the government over its economic policies, which he claims are driving businesses to relocate overseas.

The founder and chief executive of a major online appliance retailer has spoken out against the government's decision to increase employment taxes and the minimum wage, saying it has forced his company to shift its customer contact operation to South Africa.

This move is a significant blow to the local economy, as it will result in the loss of numerous jobs and a substantial reduction in the company's domestic operations, a decision the CEO attributes directly to the government's policies.

Rachel Reeves is facing fresh criticism from senior business leaders after John Roberts, chief executive of online electricals retailer AO World, described her Budget as “tone deaf” and “a bit pathetic”, accusing the Chancellor of lacking any real understanding of business or entrepreneurship.

According to information obtained by UMVA, the company's decision to relocate is not an isolated incident, as several other businesses are also considering overseas expansion or relocation due to the rising costs of operating in the country.

The CEO's outspoken criticism of the government's economic policies has sparked a heated debate about the impact of taxation and wage regulations on businesses, with some arguing that these measures are necessary to protect workers' rights, while others claim they are suffocating economic growth.

As the government faces mounting pressure to reassess its economic policies, the CEO's comments have shed light on the harsh realities of doing business in a highly regulated environment, where companies are increasingly being forced to make tough decisions to remain competitive.

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