Amazon is looking to create brick-and-mortar stores, and to start this process the company announced Amazon Counter. The new service will be available in the United States and it will offer in-store pick up options to consumers. The service will be available to consumers in 100 locations, with plans to expand to 1,500 locations by the end of 2019.
Amazon Counter fits with the company's broader strategy to create more brick and mortar locations. The business grew to prominence as an e-commerce service but sees it self expanding into conventional retail.
Amazon also is looking to get into the pharmaceutical industry, recently the company purchased the online pharmacy PillPack. The purchase came at a cost of approximately $1 billion USD, this is a clear statement that the company is willing to invest resources in its pharmaceutical expansion.
Brick-and-Mortar E-Commerce Expansions
Amazon Counter Will Provide In-Store Pick Up
Trend Themes
1. Brick-and-mortar Expansion - The trend of online retailers creating physical stores opens up opportunities for enhancing the shopping experience through immersive and personalized in-store experiences.
2. In-store Pick Up - The trend of offering in-store pick up options provides businesses with opportunities to improve convenience and customer satisfaction by combining the benefits of online shopping with the immediacy of physical retail.
3. Pharmaceutical Expansion - The trend of e-commerce giants entering the pharmaceutical industry presents opportunities for disrupting traditional supply chains and improving access to medication delivery services.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - The retail industry can leverage the trend of brick-and-mortar expansion to create innovative shopping experiences that seamlessly integrate the online and offline worlds.
2. Logistics - The logistics industry can capitalize on the trend of in-store pick up by developing efficient and streamlined processes for managing customer orders and inventory within physical stores.
3. Pharmaceutical - The pharmaceutical industry can explore disruptive opportunities by partnering with or competing against e-commerce giants entering the market, and by leveraging technology to offer more convenient and accessible pharmacy services.