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Amazon has reportedly paused its plans to expand its checkout-free convenience stores, according to The Times, amid weaker sales and the current economic outlook.
The Times claims the retail giant has “walked away” from talks on “dozens” of sites for its Amazon Fresh stores, whilst calling off a search for more locations.
The paper reported that there will still be a “handful” of openings this year at sites where Amazon has committed to a lease.
With Amazon Fresh stores reportedly falling short of expectations however, further openings will not be considered at present.
The group had previously opened its first Amazon Fresh store outside of London with a new site in Sevenoaks, Kent. The retailer opened its first UK grocery store in Ealing, London, last year.
Selling prepared meals, groceries, and Amazon devices, Amazon Fresh stores rely on technology to guide the shopping experience, with shoppers’ purchases noted via ceiling cameras and shelf weight sensors.
A cashless store, consumers gain access to the property via a smartphone QR code, with their registered credit card then being billed as they leave the shop.
Amazon has been contacted for comment.
