Amazon is planning to close all its Amazon Fresh grocery stores in the UK, putting employees at risk. The company announced the closure of its 19 Amazon Fresh outlets, with intentions to convert five of them into Whole Foods stores as part of a wider restructuring of its UK grocery operations. Amazon emphasized its commitment to the UK market and its focus on the online platform.
The decision to shut down the Amazon Fresh shops has led to a consultation process with staff, although the exact number of affected employees has not been disclosed. Amazon assured that it will offer alternative positions within the organization to those impacted by the closures.
Initially launched in 2021, Amazon Fresh introduced a checkout-free shopping experience using advanced technology. However, due to decreased consumer interest post-pandemic, the company scaled back its expansion plans. The transition of five stores to the Whole Foods Market brand, known for organic products, is part of Amazon’s strategy.
In addition to the conversion plans, Amazon aims to increase the number of Whole Foods stores to 12 by the end of the next year. The company also plans to double the number of Prime subscription customers with access to grocery options through partners like Morrisons, Iceland, Co-op, and Gopuff. Furthermore, Amazon will introduce fresh groceries, including dairy, meat, and seafood, on Amazon.co.uk starting next year.
John Boumphrey, the country manager for Amazon UK, highlighted the company’s continuous efforts to enhance the grocery shopping experience for customers. Apart from the Sevenoaks branch in Kent, all Amazon Fresh stores are located in London.
Stores in Richmond, Wandsworth, Ealing Broadway, and East Sheen have already closed between 2023 and early 2025, leaving a total of 19 operational sites.