LONDON, Sept 23 (Reuters) — Amazon has announced it will close all 19 of its Amazon Fresh convenience grocery stores in the United Kingdom, less than five years after entering the market. Five of the locations will be converted to the company’s Whole Foods Market banner.
Amazon Fresh introduced “walk out” checkout-free shopping technology to Britain, letting customers pick up groceries — including its private-label “by Amazon” range — and leave without stopping at a register.
The company said the closures follow a strategic review and reflect its decision to focus on online grocery delivery, where it sees “substantial growth opportunities.” Amazon cited strong demand from its Amazon.co.uk store, Amazon Fresh online, Whole Foods Market, and delivery partnerships with Morrisons, Co-op, Iceland, and Gopuff.
Looking ahead, Amazon plans to expand its perishable grocery offerings alongside household essentials and other products on Amazon.co.uk, with same-day delivery set to begin next year.
The Whole Foods Market conversions mark a renewed push for the U.S. natural and organic grocer in Britain, eight years after Amazon acquired the chain.
