Amazon is planning to close all 19 of its Fresh convenience stores, four years after the till-free concept opened.
The firm said the proposals followed “a thorough evaluation of business operations and the very substantial growth opportunities in online delivery.” Of the stores proposed for closure, five would be converted to the Whole Foods Market brand, alongside an expansion of Amazon’s online grocery services.
Based in London, the stores allow customers to pay for and leave the store with items without having to visit a checkout. This is possible through special scanners and cameras which detect and analyse a customer’s movement. Initially the service required customers to be an Amazon member, with the transaction being taken from the card linked to their account after they leave the store. However, Amazon eventually scrapped this requirement and allowed customers to scan a payment card at the exit.
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Why are Amazon Fresh convenience stores closing down?
Retail experts previously argued a complicated sign up process had hampered the firm’s ability to attract customers to the stores.
Commenting about the proposed closures on LinkedIn, London-based independent retailer Benedict Selvaratnam said: “Technology alone won’t save retail. People want people. They want connection, trust, and community — not faceless transactions.
“This is where independents win. Local shops don’t just sell groceries; they sponsor local teams, host cultural events, and make high streets feel alive. As Amazon steps back, it’s a reminder: the future of retail belongs to those who can deliver both convenience and human connection.”
John Boumphrey, country manager, Amazon UK, said: “We’ll be working hard to support any potentially impacted teams throughout these planned changes and are deeply grateful for their dedication. If the proposal moves forward, we’ll support our employees by offering alternative employment opportunities within Amazon wherever possible.”
