Amazon withdraws from the UK retail business

Amazon has announced the closure of all its 19 Amazon Fresh convenience stores in the United Kingdom, less than five years after entering the market. However, five of these locations are to be converted into Whole Foods Markets. The decision to close the stores follows a comprehensive assessment of the business environment and significant growth opportunities in the area of online deliveries. The e-commerce giant had pioneered its groundbreaking "walk-out" technology at the Amazon Fresh stores in the UK, allowing shoppers to pick up their items and leave the store without having to queue at a checkout. However, Amazon has seen strong demand for household goods and groceries through its online platforms, including Amazon.co.uk, Amazon Fresh online, as well as through partnerships with supermarkets like Morrisons, Co-op, Iceland, and Gopuff. Starting next year, the company plans to offer perishable foods alongside everyday items on Amazon.co.uk with same-day delivery. Amazon views the online business as more promising for the future and therefore plans to further expand its presence in the online grocery market sector. The five planned Whole Foods Markets will be integrated into the chain's portfolio, which Amazon had already acquired in 2017.