Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) is set to open the first physical store of its Amazon Fresh grocery company this week. Amazon first jumped into the shopping spree with the acquisition of the nature and organic chain Whole Foods Market in 2017.
The first new Amazon Fresh store, near Los Angeles, will be the first of the chain intended for a customer other than Whole Foods. The company said it will focus on low prices and offer a variety of national brands at its Amazon Fresh stores, making it more of a competitor to chains Kroger of Albertsons and Whole Foods.
Image Source: Amazon.
Amazon also said it will introduce its new Dash Cart in stores, providing customers with a faster shopping experience without having to go through checkout lanes. The Dash Cart is linked to the Amazon smartphone app, allowing customers with up to two shopping bags to simply place groceries in the cart and go out. It also has a screen that shows Alexa shopping lists to users.
The Amazon Fresh delivery service is available exclusively to Amazon Prime members in select cities. Starting today, some customers can shop in the physical Amazon Fresh store, by invitation only. It will be open to all customers in the coming weeks, the company said.
Amazon Fresh stores will combine the convenience of online shopping with the in-store experience, and will offer same-day delivery or pick-up options for Prime members. Customers of Amazon.com will also be able to pick up or return packages at the Fresh stores.
