Amazon Shutters Two "Amazon Style" Clothing Stores as Focus Shifts to Grocery Business

Physical retail stores in Los Angeles and Ohio to shutter next week after 17 months of operation, as e-commerce giant prioritizes expansion of grocery business, including Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market.

Amazon is closing two 'Amazon Style' physical clothing stores located in Los Angeles and Columbus, Ohio, marking another withdrawal from brick-and-mortar retail.
Despite early suggestions that Amazon's entry into physical retail could threaten traditional retailers like Macy's and Kohl's, this withdrawal follows the closure of Amazon's bookstores, pop-up locations, and 4-star shops.
The company, while abandoning certain physical retail formats, is stressing its continued commitment to its grocery business, spanning Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, Amazon Go, and partnerships with third parties.
The closure is part of Amazon's shift in strategy towards enhancing its online apparel platform, which reported approximately $41 billion in sales in 2020. The company will continue to introduce innovative technology and more product selections to improve the online shopping experience.
Affected employees from the Amazon Style stores will be supported in finding new roles within the company, with severance packages offered to those who choose to leave.

Washington Post

Associated Press