📉 Store closures continue
Amazon will close its Woodland Hills, CA Amazon Go store on Feb. 26. The store was part of Amazon’s suburban expansion plan but is now shutting down after a portfolio review. Amazon has closed about 50% of its Go stores since early 2023.
🛒 Physical retail struggles
At its peak in early 2023, Amazon Go had 30 stores across four states. Cost-cutting led to multiple closures, including eight at once in April 2023. Now, only 16 locations remain as Amazon reassesses its brick-and-mortar efforts.
🚀 Tech outpaces stores
Despite store closures, Amazon’s Just Walk Out tech is expanding. Over 200 third-party stores in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada now use it. While Amazon struggles with retail, its cashierless tech gains wider adoption.
👥 Employees impacted
The Woodland Hills store had 10 employees who will lose their jobs on March 10. Amazon says it's helping them find other roles. Meanwhile, Amazon Fresh has grown past 50 stores, while Whole Foods continues to expand steadily.
Is Amazon giving up on physical retail?
