Amazon continues to enhance its grocery services in the UK by expanding online delivery options and closing its Amazon Fresh physical stores. The company aims to offer UK customers a vast selection of groceries and household essentials online with faster delivery times, enhancing convenience. Currently, millions of UK customers use Amazon for grocery shopping, benefiting from partnerships with Morrisons, Co-op, Iceland, and Gopuff.
By early next year, Amazon plans to double the number of UK Prime members with access to three or more online grocery delivery options through these partners. This expansion is projected to cover over 80% of Prime members, aligning with the growing trend of online grocery shopping in the UK. According to an industry report, over 25% of food spending in the UK is expected to take place online by 2030.
In response to customer demand, Amazon plans to introduce perishable groceries with Same-Day Delivery on Amazon.co.uk by 2026. This new service, recently launched in the U.S., will include fresh produce, dairy, meat, and other essentials combined with quick delivery.
However, alongside their commitment to enhancing online services, Amazon has proposed closing its Amazon Fresh stores in the UK, citing significant growth opportunities in online delivery. The company is exploring opportunities to redeploy affected employees within Amazon.
Additionally, as part of its strategy, Amazon plans to convert five Amazon Fresh locations into Whole Foods Market stores, expanding the presence of this organic food brand in London. Whole Foods Market is known for offering natural and organic foods, which are sourced responsibly. This move will increase the number of Whole Foods Market stores in the UK to 12 by the end of 2026.
Amazon reiterated its long-term commitment to the UK, including a planned £40 billion investment over the next three years. This investment aims to create jobs, build fulfillment centers, and drive innovation across its UK operations.
Overall, these strategic changes highlight Amazon’s dedication to providing more choice and convenience for UK customers, ensuring grocery shopping is faster, easier, and more affordable. The company has reassured its commitment to supporting employees potentially affected by these changes, promising alternative employment opportunities within Amazon wherever possible.